2004 Saturn Vue vs. 1978 Buick Century

To start off, 2004 Saturn Vue is newer by 26 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 3,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn Vue (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn Vue should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn Vue weights approximately 15 kg more than 1978 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2004 Saturn Vue, 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 (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn Vue. (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn Vue.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Saturn Vue 1978 Buick Century
Make Saturn Buick
Model Vue Century
Year Released 2004 1978
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2198 cc 3788 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 144 HP 110 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 206 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 4610 mm 4990 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1700 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2760 mm