1997 Buick Riviera vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1997 Buick Riviera. (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Riviera.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Buick Riviera | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Riviera | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3790 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 364 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |