1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1971 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1971 Buick Riviera is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 7,468 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Buick Riviera (311 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1065 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1971 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1959 Abarth 1600 has manual transmission. 1959 Abarth 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1971 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | Abarth | Buick |
| Model | 1600 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 7468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3110 mm |
