2009 Toyota RAV4 vs. 1973 Toyota Century
To start off, 2009 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Toyota Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Toyota Century would be higher. At 3,375 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Toyota Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1973 Toyota Century. (157 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1973 Toyota Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Toyota Century weights approximately 390 kg more than 2009 Toyota RAV4.
Because 2009 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Toyota Century. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota RAV4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1973 Toyota Century (270 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota RAV4. (233 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Toyota Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota RAV4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota RAV4 | 1973 Toyota Century | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | RAV4 | Century |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3375 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2870 mm |
