1989 Ford Tempo vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 1989 Ford Tempo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Buick Century (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Century weights approximately 280 kg more than 1989 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Tempo, 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, 1978 Buick Century (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Tempo | 1978 Buick Century | |
Make | Ford | Buick |
Model | Tempo | Century |
Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3213 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2760 mm |