1989 Buick Riviera vs. 1988 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1989 Buick Riviera is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Kadett 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 15 more horse power than 1988 Opel Kadett. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Riviera weights approximately 517 kg more than 1988 Opel Kadett. 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, 1989 Buick Riviera (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Kadett. (195 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Kadett. 1989 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Kadett 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 | 1988 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | Riviera | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1007 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2530 mm |
