1986 Lincoln Continental vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lincoln Continental (148 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 695 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Lincoln Continental 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 1986 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1986 Lincoln Continental (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1986 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lincoln Continental | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Continental | A |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2600 mm |
