2002 BMW 332 vs. 1989 Buick Riviera
To start off, 2002 BMW 332 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 332 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1989 Buick Riviera. (165 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 332 weights approximately 131 kg more than 1989 Buick Riviera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW 332 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 2002 BMW 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2002 BMW 332 (330 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Riviera. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Riviera. 1989 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW 332 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW 332 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 332 | 1989 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 332 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2760 mm |
