1973 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Lincoln MKZ
To start off, 2009 Lincoln MKZ is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lincoln MKZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lincoln MKZ (261 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lincoln MKZ should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lincoln MKZ weights approximately 1085 kg more than 1973 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lincoln MKZ, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lincoln MKZ. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lincoln MKZ. 2009 Lincoln MKZ has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lincoln MKZ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2009 Lincoln MKZ | |
| Make | BMW | Lincoln |
| Model | 3 | MKZ |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 3495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
