1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1971 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Datsun 240Z 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 51 more horse power than 1971 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1971 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 632 kg more than 1971 Datsun 240Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Datsun 240Z 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 1971 Datsun 240Z. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Buick Riviera (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Riviera | 1971 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | Riviera | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1630 mm |
