2003 Mazda MPV vs. 1978 Buick Century

To start off, 2003 Mazda MPV is newer by 25 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Buick Century (140 HP) has 1 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MPV. (139 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MPV weights approximately 210 kg more than 1978 Buick Century.

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, 2003 Mazda MPV, 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 (250 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MPV. (207 Nm). This means 1978 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MPV.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mazda MPV 1978 Buick Century
Make Mazda Buick
Model MPV Century
Year Released 2003 1978
Body Type Minivan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2260 cc 5000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 139 HP 140 HP
Torque 207 Nm 250 Nm
Engine Bore Size 87.5 mm 94.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 94 mm 88.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 7 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1640 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4990 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1790 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2760 mm