1996 Buick Riviera vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Buick Riviera 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 61 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 70 kg more than 1999 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW Z3 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 1999 BMW Z3. 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) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1996 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW Z3. 1996 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW Z3 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 | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | Riviera | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 180 Nm |
| 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 | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 63 L |
