1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1976 Ford Taunus
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus 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 91 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 566 kg more than 1976 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Taunus 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 1976 Ford Taunus. 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 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Taunus has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Taunus 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 | 1976 Ford Taunus | |
Make | Buick | Ford |
Model | Riviera | Taunus |
Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 364 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1115 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2590 mm |