1978 Ford Escort vs. 1986 Buick Century
To start off, 1986 Buick Century is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Buick Century (150 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1978 Ford Escort. (45 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Escort.
Because 1978 Ford Escort 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 1978 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Buick Century (270 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Escort. (60 Nm). This means 1986 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Escort. 1986 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Escort | 1986 Buick Century | |
| Make | Ford | Buick |
| Model | Escort | Century |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 938 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1364 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2662 mm |
