1971 Buick Riviera vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 33 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1971 Buick Riviera. (311 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 51 kg more than 1971 Buick Riviera. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Buick Riviera. (617 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Buick Riviera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Buick Riviera | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Riviera | S |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 617 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 2091 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2720 mm |
