2003 Mazda 2 vs. 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII (290 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII weights approximately 2677 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII 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 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII (400 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2. 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII | |
| Make | Mazda | Lincoln |
| Model | 2 | Mark VIII |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 3757 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 5263 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1361 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2870 mm |
