2001 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1997 Lincoln Continental. (217 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 155 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
Because 2001 BMW M3 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lincoln Continental. (372 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lincoln Continental.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1997 Lincoln Continental | |
| Make | BMW | Lincoln |
| Model | M3 | Continental |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
