1968 Buick Riviera vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1303

To start off, 1973 Volkswagen 1303 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 7,050 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Buick Riviera (305 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1303. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1303. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1100 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1303. 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. 1968 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1973 Volkswagen 1303 has manual transmission. 1973 Volkswagen 1303 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1968 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1968 Buick Riviera 1973 Volkswagen 1303
Make Buick Volkswagen
Model Riviera 1303
Year Released 1968 1973
Engine Size 7050 cc 1493 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 305 HP 52 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1900 kg 800 kg
Vehicle Length 5370 mm 4070 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1560 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 3030 mm 2410 mm