2003 Buick Century vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 2003 Buick Century is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Buick Century (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Buick Century weights approximately 236 kg more than 1974 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Buick Century (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244. 2003 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1974 Volvo 244 has manual transmission. 1974 Volvo 244 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Buick Century | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Century | 244 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3134 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
