2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 47 kg more than 1978 Buick Century.
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 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Buick |
| Model | Passat | Century |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2760 mm |
