1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1998 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1998 Opel Vectra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Buick Riviera 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 106 more horse power than 1998 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 496 kg more than 1998 Opel Vectra. 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 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Vectra. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Vectra. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Vectra 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 | 1998 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | Riviera | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
