2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Buick Riviera
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Buick Riviera. (180 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 126 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Buick Riviera. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 1997 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 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:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | Audi | Buick |
| Model | A3 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
