1986 Lincoln Mark VII vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lincoln Mark VII. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lincoln Mark VII would be higher. At 4,940 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Lincoln Mark VII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1986 Lincoln Mark VII. (138 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lincoln Mark VII. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lincoln Mark VII weights approximately 350 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1986 Lincoln Mark VII 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 Mark VII. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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 Mark VII (346 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Lincoln Mark VII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1986 Lincoln Mark VII has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Lincoln Mark VII will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lincoln Mark VII | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mazda |
| Model | Mark VII | 3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4940 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2639 mm |
