2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 31 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP) has 152 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Century weights approximately 464 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (250 Nm). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Ford | Buick |
| Model | Explorer | Century |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
