1997 Buick Riviera vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 7 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 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1997 Buick Riviera. (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 45 kg more than 1997 Buick Riviera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Thunderbird 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Buick Riviera. (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Buick Riviera.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Buick Riviera | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Buick | Ford |
Model | Riviera | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3934 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 202 HP | 249 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 312 Nm | 388 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1745 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |