2003 BMW X3 vs. 1981 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 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 X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1981 Lincoln Continental. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1981 Lincoln Continental. 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 1981 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, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lincoln Continental. (313 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lincoln Continental.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1981 Lincoln Continental | |
| Make | BMW | Lincoln |
| Model | X3 | Continental |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2990 mm |
