1989 Buick Riviera vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 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, 1989 Buick Riviera (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Riviera weights approximately 234 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 1989 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Riviera | SLK |
Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
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 | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
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 | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4020 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |