1997 Buick Riviera vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 16 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Buick Riviera. (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 301 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
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 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Riviera | Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3790 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 364 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |