1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1972 Holden Belmont

To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Holden Belmont. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Holden Belmont would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1972 Holden Belmont. (116 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1972 Holden Belmont. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 341 kg more than 1972 Holden Belmont. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 Holden Belmont 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 1972 Holden Belmont. 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 (364 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Holden Belmont. (229 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Holden Belmont.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Buick Riviera 1972 Holden Belmont
Make Buick Holden
Model Riviera Belmont
Year Released 1997 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3790 cc 2834 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 180 HP 116 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 364 Nm 229 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 2000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Vehicle Weight 1681 kg 1340 kg
Vehicle Length 5230 mm 4770 mm
Vehicle Width 2040 mm 1890 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2830 mm