1968 Buick Riviera vs. 1981 Datsun 280
To start off, 1981 Datsun 280 is newer by 13 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) has 125 more horse power than 1981 Datsun 280. (180 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1981 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Buick Riviera weights approximately 470 kg more than 1981 Datsun 280. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Buick Riviera | 1981 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | Riviera | 280 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7050 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 305 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 106.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2530 mm |
