2004 Buick Century vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Buick Century is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle 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 133 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Century weights approximately 700 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Century | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Century | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3134 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2410 mm |
