1989 Buick Riviera vs. 2005 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima is newer by 16 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima (276 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1989 Buick Riviera. (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 54 kg more than 1989 Buick Riviera. 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Riviera. (285 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Riviera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Buick Riviera | 2005 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Buick | Nissan |
| Model | Riviera | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |
