1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1986 TVR Tasmin
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 TVR Tasmin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 TVR Tasmin would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 TVR Tasmin (196 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Buick Riviera. (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 TVR Tasmin should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 561 kg more than 1986 TVR Tasmin.
Because 1986 TVR Tasmin 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 1986 TVR Tasmin. 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 TVR Tasmin. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 TVR Tasmin. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1986 TVR Tasmin has manual transmission. 1986 TVR Tasmin 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 | 1986 TVR Tasmin | |
| Make | Buick | TVR |
| Model | Riviera | Tasmin |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 3526 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 196 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2390 mm |
