1997 Buick Century vs. 1956 Buick 40
To start off, 1997 Buick Century is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,279 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Buick 40 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1997 Buick Century. (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Buick 40 weights approximately 184 kg more than 1997 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Buick 40 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 1956 Buick 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1956 Buick 40 (433 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Buick Century. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1956 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Century | 1956 Buick 40 | |
| Make | Buick | Buick |
| Model | Century | 40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 5279 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 433 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1704 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 3110 mm |
