1997 Buick Riviera vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 11 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS.
Because 2008 Lexus IS 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 2008 Lexus IS. 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 (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Riviera | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Buick | Lexus |
| Model | Riviera | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
