2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII weights approximately 2593 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
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, 2008 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 (386 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 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:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1996 Lincoln Mark VIII | |
| Make | Audi | Lincoln |
| Model | A3 | Mark VIII |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 280 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 3757 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 5265 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1361 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2870 mm |
