1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 19 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Century weights approximately 183 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (211 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Buick |
| Model | Cavalier | Century |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
