1969 Buick GS vs. 1989 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1989 Buick Riviera is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Buick GS would be higher. At 7,468 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Buick GS (226 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1989 Buick Riviera. (165 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Buick GS should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Buick GS weights approximately 276 kg more than 1989 Buick Riviera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Buick GS 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 Buick GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1969 Buick GS (498 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Riviera. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1969 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Riviera. 1989 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1969 Buick GS has manual transmission. 1969 Buick GS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Buick GS | 1989 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | Buick | Buick |
| Model | GS | Riviera |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 498 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2760 mm |
