1969 BMW 1600 vs. 1997 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1969 BMW 1600. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1969 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 685 kg more than 1969 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 BMW 1600 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1969 BMW 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Buick Riviera (364 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 BMW 1600. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 BMW 1600 | 1997 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 1600 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 88 L |
