The Mercury Tracer entered the market in 1991 as the Mercury Lynx successor using Ford Escort platform construction for its compact car division. Equipped with a 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine that operated with overhead cam technology and included multi-port fuel injection the Tracer supplied efficient power control to its systems. The Mercury Tracer's engine reached 92 horsepower levels at 5,000 rpm and adhered to LEV emissions standards required by California. The Mercury Tracer model released in two vehicle body versions including sedan and station wagon because the manufacturer focused on delivering practical and dependable features. The vehicle achieved superior ride performance from its unified body structure while its cross-car beam maintained structural strength in combination with its solid stabilizer bars. In the substantial redesign of 1997 the Tracer received minimal updates and maintained almost all features from its second-generation body shell design. Mercury Tracer promotional materials demonstrated the vehicle's low price combined with authentic replacement parts to ensure its operational integrity throughout its total lifespan. Through their OEM Tracer parts supply the company optimized Tracer vehicle maintenance quality to prevent owners from enduring peak operational deterioration. During the period from 1999 until its manufacturing ended in 1999 the Mercury Tracer delivered dependable service for young families and students.