1989 Buick Riviera vs. 2008 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 19 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Buick Riviera. (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Riviera weights approximately 164 kg more than 2008 Dodge Nitro.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Buick Riviera. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Riviera. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Riviera. 1989 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Nitro has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Nitro 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 | 2008 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Buick | Dodge |
| Model | Riviera | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 3699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |
