2008 Lincoln MKX vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Lincoln MKX is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lincoln MKX (266 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lincoln MKX should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lincoln MKX weights approximately 2 kg more than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Pontiac Firebird 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 1981 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Lincoln MKX, 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, 2008 Lincoln MKX (339 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Lincoln MKX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. 2008 Lincoln MKX has automatic transmission and 1981 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lincoln MKX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lincoln MKX | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lincoln | Pontiac |
| Model | MKX | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1544 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 79 L |
