1998 Buick Riviera vs. 1978 Chrysler Valiant
To start off, 1998 Buick Riviera is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,130 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 Buick Riviera. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Riviera weights approximately 246 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Because 1978 Chrysler Valiant 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 1978 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Buick Riviera (287 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Buick Riviera | 1978 Chrysler Valiant | |
Make | Buick | Chrysler |
Model | Riviera | Valiant |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4130 cc | 4015 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 287 Nm | 277 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1666 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2830 mm |