1983 Lincoln Continental vs. 2012 Acura TL

To start off, 2012 Acura TL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Acura TL (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1983 Lincoln Continental. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1983 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura TL weights approximately 4 kg more than 1983 Lincoln Continental. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 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 1983 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL, 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 Acura TL (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lincoln Continental. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lincoln Continental.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Lincoln Continental 2012 Acura TL
Make Lincoln Acura
Model Continental TL
Year Released 1983 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2443 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 114 HP 280 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 344 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1686 kg 1690 kg
Vehicle Length 5120 mm 4928 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1453 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2776 mm