2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1987 Buick Riviera
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1987 Buick Riviera. (150 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Riviera weights approximately 16 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 2006 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Riviera. (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Riviera. 1987 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1987 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z4 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2750 mm |
