2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII weights approximately 2602 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII (386 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII | |
| Make | Mazda | Lincoln |
| Model | 3 | Mark VIII |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1347 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 3757 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5263 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1361 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2870 mm |
