1979 Buick Century vs. 2012 Dodge Caliber

To start off, 2012 Dodge Caliber is newer by 33 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, 2012 Dodge Caliber (158 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1979 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Buick Century weights approximately 96 kg more than 2012 Dodge Caliber.

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, 2012 Dodge Caliber, 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Dodge Caliber. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1979 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Dodge Caliber.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Buick Century 2012 Dodge Caliber
Make Buick Dodge
Model Century Caliber
Year Released 1979 2012
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3214 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 104 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 218 Nm 191 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 1334 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 4415 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1748 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1534 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2634 mm