1976 Buick Riviera vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 28 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1976 Buick Riviera. (154 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1976 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 83 kg more than 1976 Buick Riviera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (460 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Buick Riviera. (380 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Buick Riviera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Buick Riviera | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Riviera | SL |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
