1996 Buick Riviera vs. 1979 Buick Regal

To start off, 1996 Buick Riviera is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Regal would be higher. At 4,348 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1979 Buick Regal. (119 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 205 kg more than 1979 Buick Regal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Buick Regal 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 1979 Buick Regal. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Buick Riviera (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Buick Regal. (285 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Buick Regal.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Buick Riviera 1979 Buick Regal
Make Buick Buick
Model Riviera Regal
Year Released 1996 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3789 cc 4348 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 202 HP 119 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 312 Nm 285 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1700 kg 1495 kg
Vehicle Length 5270 mm 5090 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2750 mm


 

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