1987 Buick Riviera vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 1987 Buick Riviera. (150 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 524 kg more than 1987 Buick Riviera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 529 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Riviera. (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Riviera.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Buick Riviera | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Riviera | SL |
Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1501 kg | 2025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2570 mm |