1998 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Lincoln MKZ
To start off, 2009 Lincoln MKZ is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lincoln MKZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lincoln MKZ (261 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lincoln MKZ should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lincoln MKZ weights approximately 1040 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. 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, 2009 Lincoln MKZ, 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, 2009 Lincoln MKZ (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Lincoln MKZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2009 Lincoln MKZ | |
| Make | BMW | Lincoln |
| Model | 318 | MKZ |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1893 cc | 3495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
