1998 Buick Riviera vs. 1987 Ford Fairlane

To start off, 1998 Buick Riviera is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,130 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Fairlane (137 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Buick Riviera. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Riviera weights approximately 36 kg more than 1987 Ford Fairlane.

Because 1987 Ford Fairlane 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 1987 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1987 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Buick Riviera. (287 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Buick Riviera. 1998 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Fairlane has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Fairlane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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