1987 Buick Riviera vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1987 Buick Riviera is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1987 Buick Riviera. (150 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Riviera weights approximately 206 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Buick Riviera (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1987 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Buick Riviera | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Riviera | 280 |
Year Released | 1987 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1501 kg | 1295 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |