In 1969 they used a pilot, and a very good one too.

Surveyor 1 in 1966 is a much better comparison.

Yes. SpaceX absolutely depends on the v^2 automatic deceleration effect the atmosphere provides. They also depend on GPS which is not available on the moon. SpaceX also takes advantage of 50 years of improvement in orientation sensors, INS, image analysis, thrust vectoring servos, and thrust control.

As another post points out, the Apollo landings had real pilots who could look out the window. It's a testament to their skills that they all made it home.

Thanks for the context. Agreed it's amazing what people can do it such an unforgiving environment.