1997 Buick Century vs. 1980 Volvo 245
To start off, 1997 Buick Century is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Century (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 245. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 245. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Century weights approximately 180 kg more than 1980 Volvo 245. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 245 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 1980 Volvo 245. 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, 1997 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 245. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Century | 1980 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Century | 245 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2660 mm |
