1978 Buick Century vs. 2001 Porsche 996
To start off, 2001 Porsche 996 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Century weights approximately 25 kg more than 2001 Porsche 996.
Because 2001 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Buick Century. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 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, 2001 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick Century | 2001 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Buick | Porsche |
| Model | Century | 996 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3213 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2360 mm |
