1991 Buick Riviera vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Buick Riviera (170 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Buick Riviera weights approximately 435 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1991 Buick Riviera (285 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (115 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. 1991 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Buick Riviera | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | Polo |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
