1971 Buick Riviera vs. 1989 Buick Riviera

To start off, 1989 Buick Riviera is newer by 18 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 146 more horse power than 1989 Buick Riviera. (165 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick Riviera weights approximately 516 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 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, 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, 1971 Buick Riviera (617 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Riviera. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Riviera.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Buick Riviera 1989 Buick Riviera
Make Buick Buick
Model Riviera Riviera
Year Released 1971 1989
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 7468 cc 3800 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 311 HP 165 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 617 Nm 285 Nm
Torque RPM 2600 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.3:1 8.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 2040 kg 1524 kg
Vehicle Length 5560 mm 5040 mm
Vehicle Width 2040 mm 1830 mm
Wheelbase Size 3110 mm 2760 mm


 

More Comparisons

Resources

Replacing Your Front Disc Brakes Made Simple: The Definitive DIY Guide
Replace the front disc brakes of your vehicle and save money on labour cost. Read this guide to learn how. [read more]
What to look for when buying a used/second hand car.
Diligence through every step of the buying process will help you find a reliable used car and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [read more]
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform an Oil Change on Your Car
One of the most effective ways of saving money on car maintenance is to change the oil yourself. [read more]