1976 Buick Riviera vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 35 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 6,595 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Buick Riviera (182 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Buick Riviera weights approximately 541 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen T5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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 (435 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1976 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen T5. 1976 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | T5 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6595 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 435 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
