http://www.caranddriver.com/feature...-of-2008-30000-to-40000-2008-bmw-335i-page-10
2008 BMW 335i
C/D TEST RESULTS:
Zero to 60 mph: 4.8 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 11.8 sec
Zero to 130 mph: 21.1 sec
Street start, 5–60 mph: 5.6 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 13.5 sec @ 106 mph
ENGINE TYPE: twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve inline-6, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 182 cu in, 2979cc
Power (SAE net): 300 bhp @ 5800 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 300 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 108.7 in
Length: 178.2 in
Width: 71.5 in
Height: 55.9 in
Curb weight: 3616 lb
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http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/lincoln-ls-v-8-sport-short-take-road-test
2003 LS V8 Sport (didn't see 2005 specifically)
C/DTEST RESULTS:
Zero to 60 mph: 6.7 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 17.2 sec
Zero to 120 mph: 26.4 sec
Street start, 5-60 mph: 7.3 sec
Standing 1/4-mile: 15.1 sec @ 94 mph
Displacement: 241 cu in, 3950cc
Power (SAE net): 280 bhp @ 6000 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 286 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 114.5 in Length: 193.9 in
Curb weight: 3907 lb
The BMW has more power, more gears and less weight. That would either have to be a major tune on the LS, or the BMW would have to have some problems, or both for the LS to beat the BMW in a race. Other possibilities are the BMW driver was unable to drive his car or he was sandbagging the Lincoln.
Last possibility, it was really a 328I which has a 0-60-mph sprint of 6.4 seconds, quarter-mile time of 14.6 seconds at 94.7 mph. A tuned LS could most likely take this one, and it doesn't take much to peel a 328 sign off and put a 335 sign on.