1968 Buick Riviera vs. 1978 Lotus 79
To start off, 1978 Lotus 79 is newer by 10 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, 1978 Lotus 79 (484 HP @ 11000 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1968 Buick Riviera. (305 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lotus 79 should accelerate faster than 1968 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1310 kg more than 1978 Lotus 79.
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 1978 Lotus 79 has manual transmission. 1978 Lotus 79 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 | 1978 Lotus 79 | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | Riviera | 79 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 7050 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 305 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 11000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 590 kg |
