1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf 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 110 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 826 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (114 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Riviera | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Riviera | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 45 L |
