1998 BMW 328 vs. 1997 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1998 BMW 328 is newer by 1 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. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 BMW 328. (191 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 328. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 70 kg more than 1998 BMW 328. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 328 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 1998 BMW 328. 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 328. (280 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 328. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 328 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 328 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:
| 1998 BMW 328 | 1997 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 328 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
