1976 Buick Riviera vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 30 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, 2006 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1976 Buick Riviera. (154 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Buick Riviera weights approximately 340 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
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, 2006 Opel Astra, 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 @ 1800 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1976 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 1976 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | Riviera | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
