1973 Buick Riviera vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 31 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1973 Buick Riviera. (250 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Buick Riviera weights approximately 31 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 SL (800 Nm) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Buick Riviera. (518 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Buick Riviera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Buick Riviera | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Riviera | SL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 518 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 2009 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 80 L |
