1987 Buick Century vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1987 Buick Century is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP) has 33 more horse power than 1987 Buick Century. (125 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Century.
Because 1971 Pontiac Firebird 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 1971 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Century. (220 Nm). This means 1971 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Buick Century | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | Century | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2800 cc | 5792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4803 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1364 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2662 mm | 2750 mm |
