1971 Buick Riviera vs. 1955 Porsche 356
To start off, 1971 Buick Riviera is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 7,468 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Buick Riviera (311 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1280 kg more than 1955 Porsche 356. 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. 1971 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1955 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1955 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Buick Riviera | 1955 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Buick | Porsche |
| Model | Riviera | 356 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2110 mm |
