1973 Buick Riviera vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 7,468 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Buick Riviera (250 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1180 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Buick Riviera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Buick Riviera | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2410 mm |
