2001 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Buick Riviera
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2001 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 44 kg more than 2001 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 320 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 2001 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Buick Riviera (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 320. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 1997 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 320 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
