1996 Buick Riviera vs. 1948 Jensen Straight 8
To start off, 1996 Buick Riviera is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jensen Straight 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jensen Straight 8 would be higher. At 3,860 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Jensen Straight 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1948 Jensen Straight 8. (130 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1948 Jensen Straight 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 175 kg more than 1948 Jensen Straight 8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Jensen Straight 8 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 1948 Jensen Straight 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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. 1996 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1948 Jensen Straight 8 has manual transmission. 1948 Jensen Straight 8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Buick Riviera | 1948 Jensen Straight 8 | |
| Make | Buick | Jensen |
| Model | Riviera | Straight 8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1948 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 3860 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 86 L |
