1971 Buick Riviera vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1971 Buick Riviera is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 277 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1240 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Buick Riviera 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 1971 Buick Riviera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Buick Riviera | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Riviera | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 1955 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7468 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 311 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2410 mm |