1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1973 Chrysler Valiant
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (163 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 281 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant. 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 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (318 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Riviera | 1973 Chrysler Valiant | |
| Make | Buick | Chrysler |
| Model | Riviera | Valiant |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2830 mm |
