1996 Buick Riviera vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1996 Buick Riviera is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 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 159 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 880 kg more than 1977 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Buick Riviera (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Buick Riviera | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2410 mm |
