1996 Buick Riviera vs. 1959 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1996 Buick Riviera is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1959 Ford Fairlane. (168 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 394 kg more than 1996 Buick Riviera.
Because 1959 Ford Fairlane 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 1959 Ford Fairlane. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Buick Riviera | 1959 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | Riviera | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 5769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 2094 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 5260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 3000 mm |
