1998 Buick Riviera vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Buick Riviera is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,130 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Riviera (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Riviera weights approximately 516 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Buick Riviera (287 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 1998 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra 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.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Buick Riviera | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Buick | Opel |
Model | Riviera | Astra |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4130 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 287 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1666 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2620 mm |