1976 Buick Riviera vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1976 Buick Riviera. (154 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1976 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Buick Riviera weights approximately 768 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1976 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 1976 Buick Riviera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1976 Buick Riviera (380 Nm) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1976 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1976 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Buick Riviera | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | Riviera | Elan |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2260 mm |
