1997 Buick Century vs. 2003 MCC Smart

To start off, 2003 MCC Smart is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Buick Century 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 2003 MCC Smart. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 2003 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Century weights approximately 700 kg more than 2003 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 MCC Smart 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 2003 MCC Smart. 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 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MCC Smart. (112 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MCC Smart. 1997 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 2003 MCC Smart has manual transmission. 2003 MCC Smart will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Buick Century 2003 MCC Smart
Make Buick MCC
Model Century Smart
Year Released 1997 2003
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 3135 cc 698 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 165 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 251 Nm 112 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1520 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4950 mm 3440 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1200 mm
Wheelbase Size 2780 mm 2370 mm