1997 Buick Riviera vs. 2012 Fiat Panda

To start off, 2012 Fiat Panda is newer by 15 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 2012 Fiat Panda. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 671 kg more than 2012 Fiat Panda. 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 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat Panda. (145 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat Panda. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2012 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2012 Fiat Panda 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 2012 Fiat Panda
Make Buick Fiat
Model Riviera Panda
Year Released 1997 2012
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3790 cc 1248 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 180 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 364 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.5 mm 69.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.0:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 188 km/hour 165 km/hour
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 1010 kg
Vehicle Length 5230 mm 3540 mm
Vehicle Width 2040 mm 1600 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1580 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2310 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 35 L