2008 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Lincoln MKZ
To start off, 2012 Lincoln MKZ is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lincoln MKZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lincoln MKZ (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lincoln MKZ should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 108 kg more than 2012 Lincoln MKZ.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 2008 BMW X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lincoln MKZ, 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, 2012 Lincoln MKZ (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Lincoln MKZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2012 Lincoln MKZ has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lincoln MKZ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2012 Lincoln MKZ | |
| Make | BMW | Lincoln |
| Model | X3 | MKZ |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 66 L |
