1996 Lincoln Continental vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Lincoln Continental. (218 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 421 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lincoln Continental, 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 Lincoln Continental (372 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 1996 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lincoln Continental | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mazda |
| Model | Continental | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5250 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
