1983 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Lincoln MKS
To start off, 2012 Lincoln MKS is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 323 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lincoln MKS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lincoln MKS (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1983 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lincoln MKS should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lincoln MKS weights approximately 756 kg more than 1983 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 323 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 1983 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lincoln MKS, 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, 2012 Lincoln MKS (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lincoln MKS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 323. 2012 Lincoln MKS has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lincoln MKS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 323 | 2012 Lincoln MKS | |
| Make | BMW | Lincoln |
| Model | 323 | MKS |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 1883 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5184 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1565 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2868 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
