The Mercury-badged version of the Mazda-based Ford Escort, found in a Northern California junkyard, showcases the rare feat of surpassing 300,000 miles. This particular model originated from the 1987-1989 Mercury Tracer, which evolved from the Australian-market Ford Laser and transitioned into a Mercury-badged Ford Escort in 1991.
While the later Escort and Tracer models were based on Mazda platforms, they retained the 1.9-liter “cam-in-head” Ford CVH engine as the base powerplant. However, a 1.8-liter Mazda engine was also introduced in the 1991 versions, offering a more robust option for consumers.
In a surprising move, the original buyer of this high-mileage Mercury Tracer opted for a manual transmission over an automatic. This choice ultimately proved beneficial as the car exceeded the 300,000-mile mark, highlighting the durability of this less common configuration.
Judging by the well-maintained condition of the vehicle, it is likely that the original owner was a meticulous individual, potentially a retired Navy man. The consistent upkeep and adherence to maintenance schedules likely contributed to the Mercury’s longevity on the road.
In 1995, the Ford Escort LX and Mercury Tracer sedan were priced competitively, with the Tracer offering slightly higher prestige due to its association with the Mercury brand. Despite sharing mechanical components with the Mazda Protegé, the pricing and branding differences set the vehicles apart in the market.
Following the 1999 model year, the Mercury Tracer went through one more generation before ultimately being discontinued. The Mercury brand itself met its end in 2011, marking the conclusion of an era for this once-popular American automaker.
In conclusion, the Mercury-badged Mazda-based Ford Escort exemplifies the potential for longevity in economy cars when well-maintained. The dedication of the original owner, combined with the robust construction of the vehicle, enabled it to achieve an impressive mileage milestone. Despite the eventual demise of the Mercury brand, this high-mileage Mercury Tracer serves as a testament to the lasting durability of these budget-friendly cars.