2004 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Buick Riviera
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 7 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 286 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. 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 (364 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 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:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1997 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 318 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
