1981 Ford Cortina vs. 1985 Buick Century
To start off, 1985 Buick Century is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Buick Century (85 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Ford Cortina. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Cortina.
Because 1981 Ford Cortina 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 1981 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Buick Century (224 Nm) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm). This means 1985 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Cortina. 1985 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Cortina | 1985 Buick Century | |
| Make | Ford | Buick |
| Model | Cortina | Century |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1293 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1364 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2662 mm |
