1996 Buick Riviera vs. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 6 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (406 HP) has 204 more horse power than 1996 Buick Riviera. (202 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1996 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 57 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Corvette.
Because 2002 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2002 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (542 Nm) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Buick Riviera. (312 Nm). This means 2002 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Buick Riviera. 1996 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2002 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette 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 | 2002 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
| Model | Riviera | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 406 HP |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 542 Nm |
| 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 | 1643 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2630 mm |
