1982 Lincoln Continental vs. 2009 Lincoln MKZ
To start off, 2009 Lincoln MKZ is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lincoln MKZ (261 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1982 Lincoln Continental. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lincoln MKZ should accelerate faster than 1982 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lincoln MKZ weights approximately 820 kg more than 1982 Lincoln Continental. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Lincoln Continental 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 1982 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Lincoln MKZ (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lincoln Continental. (237 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Lincoln MKZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lincoln Continental.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lincoln Continental | 2009 Lincoln MKZ | |
| Make | Lincoln | Lincoln |
| Model | Continental | MKZ |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 3495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 66 L |
