1989 Buick Riviera vs. 1981 Toyota Cressida
To start off, 1989 Buick Riviera is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Cressida. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Cressida would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Riviera weights approximately 364 kg more than 1981 Toyota Cressida.
Because 1981 Toyota Cressida 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 1981 Toyota Cressida. 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 1981 Toyota Cressida has manual transmission. 1981 Toyota Cressida 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 | 1981 Toyota Cressida | |
| Make | Buick | Toyota |
| Model | Riviera | Cressida |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 0 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2650 mm |
