1979 BMW 732 vs. 1989 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1989 Buick Riviera is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 732. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 732 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 732 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 Buick Riviera. (165 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 732 should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Riviera weights approximately 24 kg more than 1979 BMW 732.
Because 1979 BMW 732 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 1979 BMW 732. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, both vehicles can yield 285 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1989 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1979 BMW 732 has manual transmission. 1979 BMW 732 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 BMW 732 | 1989 Buick Riviera | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 732 | Riviera |
Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3210 cc | 3800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 285 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1524 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2760 mm |