1989 Buick Riviera vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1992 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 165 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Riviera weights approximately 4 kg more than 1992 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1992 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz S. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1989 Buick Riviera (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mercedes-Benz S. 1989 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1992 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1992 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 1992 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Riviera | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2950 mm |
