1979 Buick Century vs. 1983 Ford Escort

To start off, 1983 Ford Escort is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Buick Century (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Buick Century weights approximately 380 kg more than 1983 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Buick Century 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 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Escort, 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, 1979 Buick Century (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1979 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Buick Century 1983 Ford Escort
Make Buick Ford
Model Century Escort
Year Released 1979 1983
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3214 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 104 HP 51 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 218 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 1050 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 4170 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2400 mm