1972 Buick Riviera vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 7,468 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Buick Riviera (250 HP) has 176 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Buick Riviera weights approximately 893 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Buick Riviera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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, 1972 Buick Riviera (518 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 409 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1972 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Buick Riviera | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | Riviera | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 518 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 55 L |
