1971 Buick Riviera vs. 2009 Pontiac G3
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G3 is newer by 38 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 206 more horse power than 2009 Pontiac G3. (105 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2009 Pontiac G3.
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, 2009 Pontiac G3, 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 475 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Pontiac G3. (142 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Pontiac G3. 1971 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2009 Pontiac G3 has manual transmission. 2009 Pontiac G3 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 | 2009 Pontiac G3 | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | Riviera | G3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 617 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2490 mm |
