2008 Lincoln MKZ vs. 1979 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 2008 Lincoln MKZ is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lincoln MKZ (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1979 Lincoln Continental. (138 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lincoln MKZ should accelerate faster than 1979 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 184 kg more than 2008 Lincoln MKZ.
Because 2008 Lincoln MKZ is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Lincoln Continental. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Lincoln MKZ will offer significantly more control. 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, 1979 Lincoln Continental (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lincoln MKZ. (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lincoln MKZ.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lincoln MKZ | 1979 Lincoln Continental | |
| Make | Lincoln | Lincoln |
| Model | MKZ | Continental |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 5766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1716 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2990 mm |
