1998 Buick Riviera vs. 2012 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2012 Ford Fiesta is newer by 14 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, 1998 Buick Riviera (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (120 HP @ 6350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Riviera weights approximately 515 kg more than 2012 Ford Fiesta. 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 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Fiesta. 1998 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2012 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2012 Ford Fiesta 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 | 2012 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | Riviera | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4130 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1666 kg | 1151 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 45 L |
