1999 Buick Century vs. 1980 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1999 Buick Century is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Buick Century (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Buick Century weights approximately 420 kg more than 1980 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Chrysler 1609 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 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609. 1999 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1980 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1980 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Buick Century | 1980 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Buick | Chrysler |
| Model | Century | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3134 cc | 1812 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2670 mm |
