2006 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 28 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, 2006 Opel Astra (149 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 85 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, 2006 Opel Astra, 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, 2006 Opel Astra (320 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (250 Nm). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Opel | Buick |
| Model | Astra | Century |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 94.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
