1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II vs. 1989 Buick Century
To start off, 1989 Buick Century is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Century (161 HP) has 32 more horse power than 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II. (129 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II.
Because 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II 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 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Buick Century, 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, 1989 Buick Century (251 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II. (167 Nm). This means 1989 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II. 1989 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II has manual transmission. 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II | 1989 Buick Century | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Buick |
| Model | 3000 Mk II | Century |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 3300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1364 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2662 mm |
