2008 Volvo V50 vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 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, 1978 Buick Century (140 HP) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Volvo V50. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 54 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 Volvo V50, 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 Volvo V50 (340 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (250 Nm). This means 2008 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo V50 | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Volvo | Buick |
| Model | V50 | Century |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 94.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1484 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
