1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1983 Mercury Lynx
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercury Lynx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercury Lynx would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1983 Mercury Lynx. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1983 Mercury Lynx. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Mercury Lynx, 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mercury Lynx. (122 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1983 Mercury Lynx | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | Z3 | Lynx |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2400 mm |
