1972 BMW 3 vs. 1996 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1996 Buick Riviera is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 430 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 3 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Buick Riviera (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1996 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 1996 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1996 Buick Riviera | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 3 | Riviera |
Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3789 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 202 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 312 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1700 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2820 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |