1987 Buick Riviera vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 23 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1987 Buick Riviera. (150 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 66 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.
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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Riviera. (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Riviera. 1987 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | Passat |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1501 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2710 mm |
