1979 Austin Marina vs. 1988 Buick Century

To start off, 1988 Buick Century is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Austin Marina would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Century (150 HP) has 91 more horse power than 1979 Austin Marina. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1979 Austin Marina.

Because 1979 Austin Marina 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 1979 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Buick Century (270 Nm) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Austin Marina. (102 Nm). This means 1988 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Austin Marina. 1988 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1979 Austin Marina has manual transmission. 1979 Austin Marina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Austin Marina 1988 Buick Century
Make Austin Buick
Model Marina Century
Year Released 1979 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1274 cc 3800 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 150 HP
Torque 102 Nm 270 Nm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 4230 mm 4803 mm
Vehicle Width 1660 mm 1763 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1364 mm
Wheelbase Size 2440 mm 2662 mm