1991 BMW Z1 vs. 1998 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1998 Buick Riviera is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 4,130 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 Buick Riviera. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Riviera weights approximately 416 kg more than 1991 BMW Z1.
Because 1991 BMW Z1 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 1991 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Buick Riviera (287 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1. 1998 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW Z1 | 1998 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z1 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 100.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |
