1971 Buick Riviera vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 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 139 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1996 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, 1996 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. Let's talk about torque, 1971 Buick Riviera (617 Nm) has 382 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 1971 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 1971 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 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 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Riviera | Golf |
Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7468 cc | 2801 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 311 HP | 172 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 617 Nm | 235 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2480 mm |