1996 Buick Riviera vs. 1965 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Buick Riviera is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan 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 98 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1040 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Lotus Elan 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 1965 Lotus Elan. 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 1965 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1965 Lotus Elan 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 | 1965 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | Riviera | Elan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 45 L |
