2002 Lincoln Continental vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lincoln Continental (410 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Lincoln Continental (571 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2002 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lincoln Continental | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mazda |
| Model | Continental | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6000 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 410 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 571 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5450 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1350 mm |
