2004 Nissan Altima vs. 1981 Buick Century
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick Century weights approximately 69 kg more than 2004 Nissan Altima.
Because 1981 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 1981 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Buick Century. (217 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Altima | 1981 Buick Century | |
| Make | Nissan | Buick |
| Model | Altima | Century |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2505 cc | 3213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1361 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2760 mm |
