1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1130 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Lotus Seven 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 1970 Lotus Seven. 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 1970 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1970 Lotus Seven 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 | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | Riviera | Seven |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| 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 | 570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 950 mm |
