1996 Buick Riviera vs. 2008 Saleen S7
To start off, 2008 Saleen S7 is newer by 12 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 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 548 more horse power than 1996 Buick Riviera. (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 453 kg more than 2008 Saleen S7.
Because 2008 Saleen S7 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 2008 Saleen S7. 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, 2008 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 637 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Buick Riviera. (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Saleen S7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Buick Riviera. 1996 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2008 Saleen S7 has manual transmission. 2008 Saleen S7 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 | 2008 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Buick | Saleen |
| Model | Riviera | S7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 750 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 949 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2692 mm |
