1998 BMW 318 vs. 1986 Mercury Lynx
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercury Lynx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercury Lynx would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mercury Lynx is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1986 Mercury Lynx. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1986 Mercury Lynx. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercury Lynx. (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1986 Mercury Lynx | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | 318 | Lynx |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2400 mm |
