1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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) has 46 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 321 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Riviera | 230 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 65 L |
