2008 Honda Element vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2008 Honda Element is newer by 30 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, 2008 Honda Element (166 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Element weights approximately 526 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, 2008 Honda Element, 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 (250 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Element. (218 Nm). This means 1978 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Element | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Honda | Buick |
| Model | Element | Century |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1956 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
