2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1980 Buick Century
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick Century would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1980 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 652 kg more than 1980 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Buick Century. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Buick Century. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1980 Buick Century | |
| Make | Ford | Buick |
| Model | Explorer | Century |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 3213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
