1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1952 Ferrari 342 America
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ferrari 342 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ferrari 342 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1952 Ferrari 342 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Ferrari 342 America (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Buick Riviera. (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 591 kg more than 1952 Ferrari 342 America.
Because 1952 Ferrari 342 America 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 1952 Ferrari 342 America. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1952 Ferrari 342 America has manual transmission. 1952 Ferrari 342 America will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Riviera | 1952 Ferrari 342 America | |
| Make | Buick | Ferrari |
| Model | Riviera | 342 America |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 4101 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 68 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 105 L |
