1971 Buick Riviera vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1130 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1979 Volkswagen Golf, 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. 1971 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2480 mm |
