If the BMW 540i is the diamond, the LS V8 is the diamond in the rough. I have no doubt that the LS can meet or even beat the 2003 540i in all-out acceleration and handling tests, but it does so with the aforementioned quality issues. Its performance edge most likely will not be relevant when compared to BMW's all-new 2004 model, that includes a more powerful V8 engine.
That being said, don't walk away thinking the LS V8 is anything other than a true hot rod Lincoln that is as thrilling to drive as any other luxury sports sedan in production anywhere in the world. What's even more impressive is that the Lincoln is set free for a fraction of the ransom demanded by some of its European rivals.
The LS V8 starts at $47,645, with the Sport Package raising the price to $51,710. Add on the Premium Package and the price jumps to $53,675, while the full-load total with the Premium Sport Package is $56,710. It's possible to shoot the price up even higher with the navigation THX audio package, $3,700, and AdvanceTrac electronic stability control for $1,195. As well Lincoln offers its rear parking assist for $410. If you opt for Ceramic White Pearl or Ivory Parchment paint then the price hikes $415 more, maxing out at $62,430. It's not chump change by any means, but a 2003 BMW 540i doesn't even start until $74,400, less discount, hits the dealer's palms.
The boys at Ford's premium automaker should really be congratulated for the courage it must have taken to emphasize performance over the pillow-like meekness traditionally found in Lincoln cars. I am sure that good old Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen would be ecstatic to sing about Lincoln's new hot rod LS V8. Perhaps it's time for a reprise of one of my favorite tunes.
Specifications (LS V8):
That being said, don't walk away thinking the LS V8 is anything other than a true hot rod Lincoln that is as thrilling to drive as any other luxury sports sedan in production anywhere in the world. What's even more impressive is that the Lincoln is set free for a fraction of the ransom demanded by some of its European rivals.
The LS V8 starts at $47,645, with the Sport Package raising the price to $51,710. Add on the Premium Package and the price jumps to $53,675, while the full-load total with the Premium Sport Package is $56,710. It's possible to shoot the price up even higher with the navigation THX audio package, $3,700, and AdvanceTrac electronic stability control for $1,195. As well Lincoln offers its rear parking assist for $410. If you opt for Ceramic White Pearl or Ivory Parchment paint then the price hikes $415 more, maxing out at $62,430. It's not chump change by any means, but a 2003 BMW 540i doesn't even start until $74,400, less discount, hits the dealer's palms.
The boys at Ford's premium automaker should really be congratulated for the courage it must have taken to emphasize performance over the pillow-like meekness traditionally found in Lincoln cars. I am sure that good old Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen would be ecstatic to sing about Lincoln's new hot rod LS V8. Perhaps it's time for a reprise of one of my favorite tunes.
Specifications (LS V8):
- Price Range (MSRP): $47,645 - $62,430 (U.S. $40,222 - $43,520)
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front engine, RWD
- Engine: 280-hp, 286 lb-ft, 3.9-L, (238 cu-in) 32-valve, DOHC V8
- Transmission: 5-spd auto with manual mode
- Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 6.9
- Brakes: disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight: 1,703 kg (3,755 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Volume (trunk): 382 L (13.5 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 14.2 / 9.1 L/100km (17 / 26 mpg)
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive (48/50,000 miles)
- Direct Competitors: Audi RS6, BMW 540, Cadillac CTS, Cadillac Seville, Infiniti M45, Jaguar S-Type V-8, Lexus GS 430, Mercedes-Benz E500, Mercury Marauder, Volkswagen Passat W8
- Web Site: www.ford.ca
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