2009 Toyota Matrix vs. 1996 Toyota Century
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Century would be higher. At 3,995 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Toyota Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Century. (153 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota Century weights approximately 445 kg more than 2009 Toyota Matrix.
Because 1996 Toyota 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 1996 Toyota Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix, 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, 1996 Toyota Century (289 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Matrix. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Toyota Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Matrix. 1996 Toyota Century has automatic transmission and 2009 Toyota Matrix has manual transmission. 2009 Toyota Matrix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Toyota Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Matrix | 1996 Toyota Century | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Matrix | Century |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2361 cc | 3995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 289 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2870 mm |
