2003 BMW X3 vs. 1971 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 7,542 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lincoln Continental (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 515 kg more than 2003 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Lincoln Continental. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1971 Lincoln Continental (488 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 1971 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1971 Lincoln Continental | |
| Make | BMW | Lincoln |
| Model | X3 | Continental |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 7542 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 2330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3230 mm |
