1989 Buick Riviera vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Riviera weights approximately 150 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 1989 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
