1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 550 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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 (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra 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 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Buick | Opel |
Model | Riviera | Astra |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 202 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 312 Nm | 128 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |