1989 Buick Riviera vs. 2009 Buick Lucerne
To start off, 2009 Buick Lucerne is newer by 20 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 3,880 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick Lucerne (227 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1989 Buick Riviera. (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 238 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, 2009 Buick Lucerne (321 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Riviera. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Riviera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Buick Riviera | 2009 Buick Lucerne | |
| Make | Buick | Buick |
| Model | Riviera | Lucerne |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 3880 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1762 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2940 mm |
