1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1989 Buick Century
To start off, 1989 Buick Century is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Century (161 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Buick Century (251 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm). This means 1989 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 1989 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1989 Buick Century | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Buick |
| Model | 230 | Century |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 3300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4849 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1374 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2664 mm |
