1971 Buick Riviera vs. 1999 Pontiac Salsa

To start off, 1999 Pontiac Salsa is newer by 28 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 158 more horse power than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick Riviera weights approximately 840 kg more than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. 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, 1999 Pontiac Salsa, 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 414 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (203 Nm). This means 1971 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. 1971 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1999 Pontiac Salsa has manual transmission. 1999 Pontiac Salsa 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: