1996 Buick Riviera vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1996 Buick Riviera is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 900 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Buick Riviera | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2410 mm |
