1998 Buick Riviera vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 10 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1998 Buick Riviera. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Riviera weights approximately 61 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Buick Riviera. (287 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Buick Riviera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick Riviera | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Riviera | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4130 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1666 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 62 L |
