1998 Buick Riviera vs. 2005 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 7 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Buick Riviera. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 24 kg more than 1998 Buick Riviera. 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 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. 1998 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2005 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2005 Hyundai Sonata 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 | 2005 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Buick | Hyundai |
| Model | Riviera | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4130 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1666 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 65 L |
