1996 Lincoln Mark VIII vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII (290 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII weights approximately 2457 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII 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 Lincoln Mark VIII. 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, 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII (400 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII 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. 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mazda |
| Model | Mark VIII | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 3757 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5265 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1361 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2639 mm |
