1998 Buick Riviera vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 4,130 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 Buick Riviera. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Riviera weights approximately 276 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 1998 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Riviera | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4130 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.7 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1666 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 70 L |
