1997 Buick Riviera vs. 2006 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 9 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 3 more horse power than 2006 Pontiac Solstice. (177 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2006 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 2006 Pontiac Solstice 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 2006 Pontiac Solstice. 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 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Pontiac Solstice. (225 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Pontiac Solstice. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2006 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2006 Pontiac Solstice 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 | 2006 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | Riviera | Solstice |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 2376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 97.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 49 L |
