2005 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII (290 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII weights approximately 2442 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII (400 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII | |
| Make | Audi | Lincoln |
| Model | A3 | Mark VIII |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 3757 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5265 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1361 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2870 mm |
