1971 Buick Riviera vs. 1974 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 1974 Chevrolet Nova is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Buick Riviera 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 203 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick Riviera weights approximately 505 kg more than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1971 Buick Riviera (617 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (272 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Buick Riviera | 1974 Chevrolet Nova | |
Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
Model | Riviera | Nova |
Year Released | 1971 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7468 cc | 4299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 311 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 617 Nm | 272 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2830 mm |