1987 Buick Riviera vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1987 Buick Riviera. (150 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Riviera weights approximately 188 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1987 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. 1987 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Riviera | Beetle |
Year Released | 1987 | 2001 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1501 kg | 1313 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2520 mm |