1974 Buick Riviera vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 7,468 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Buick Riviera (250 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Buick Riviera weights approximately 798 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Buick Riviera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1974 Buick Riviera (518 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 337 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1974 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Buick Riviera | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | Riviera | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 518 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 55 L |
