1989 Buick Riviera vs. 1957 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1989 Buick Riviera is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Riviera (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1079 kg more than 1957 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Lotus Seven 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 1957 Lotus Seven. 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. 1989 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1957 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1957 Lotus Seven 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:
| 1989 Buick Riviera | 1957 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | Riviera | Seven |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2240 mm |
