1981 Toyota Carina vs. 1989 Buick Century
To start off, 1989 Buick Century is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Carina 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 78 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Carina. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Carina.
Because 1981 Toyota Carina 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 Toyota Carina. 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 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Carina. (124 Nm). This means 1989 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Carina. 1989 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1981 Toyota Carina has manual transmission. 1981 Toyota Carina 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:
| 1981 Toyota Carina | 1989 Buick Century | |
| Make | Toyota | Buick |
| Model | Carina | Century |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4849 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1374 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2664 mm |
