2004 Buick Century vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2004 Buick Century is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Century (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Century weights approximately 340 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Buick Century (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Century | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Buick | Fiat |
| Model | Century | 131 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3134 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2500 mm |
