1996 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (202 HP) has 102 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 566 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. 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, 1997 Buick Riviera (312 Nm) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1997 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | Audi | Buick |
| Model | A3 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 202 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
