1978 BMW M1 vs. 1991 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1991 Buick Riviera is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1991 Buick Riviera. (170 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1991 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Buick Riviera weights approximately 220 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 1978 BMW M1 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 1978 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Buick Riviera, 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Buick Riviera. (285 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Buick Riviera. 1991 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW M1 | 1991 Buick Riviera | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | M1 | Riviera |
Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 3453 cc | 3800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 273 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 285 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |