1989 Buick Riviera vs. 2012 Nissan Armada

To start off, 2012 Nissan Armada is newer by 23 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 5,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Armada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Armada (317 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1989 Buick Riviera. (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Armada should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Armada weights approximately 945 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.

Because 2012 Nissan Armada 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 2012 Nissan Armada. 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, 2012 Nissan Armada (521 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Riviera. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Armada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Riviera.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Buick Riviera 2012 Nissan Armada
Make Buick Nissan
Model Riviera Armada
Year Released 1989 2012
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3800 cc 5600 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 165 HP 317 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 521 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic 5-speed automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1524 kg 2469 kg
Vehicle Length 5040 mm 5276 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 2014 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 3129 mm


 

More Comparisons

Resources

Replacing Your Front Disc Brakes Made Simple: The Definitive DIY Guide
Replace the front disc brakes of your vehicle and save money on labour cost. Read this guide to learn how. [read more]
What to look for when buying a used/second hand car.
Diligence through every step of the buying process will help you find a reliable used car and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [read more]
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform an Oil Change on Your Car
One of the most effective ways of saving money on car maintenance is to change the oil yourself. [read more]