1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII
To start off, 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII (290 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII weights approximately 2127 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII (400 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII | |
| Make | BMW | Lincoln |
| Model | Z3 | Mark VIII |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 3757 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5263 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1361 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2870 mm |
