1976 Buick Riviera vs. 2002 Volkswagen Magellan
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Magellan is newer by 26 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, 2002 Volkswagen Magellan (275 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1976 Buick Riviera. (154 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Magellan should accelerate faster than 1976 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Buick Riviera weights approximately 416 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Magellan.
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, 2002 Volkswagen Magellan, 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Magellan. (310 Nm). This means 1976 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Magellan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Buick Riviera | 2002 Volkswagen Magellan | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | Magellan |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2890 mm |
