2003 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1981 Lincoln Continental. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 413 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Lincoln Continental (313 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1981 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1981 Lincoln Continental | |
Make | BMW | Lincoln |
Model | M3 | Continental |
Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 313 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 101.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1855 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5570 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1990 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2990 mm |