1968 Buick Riviera vs. 1973 Volkswagen 181
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen 181 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 181.
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 181 has manual transmission. 1973 Volkswagen 181 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 181 | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | 181 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 7050 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 305 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2410 mm |
