2009 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Buick Riviera
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 20 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, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 Buick Riviera. (165 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 21 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 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Buick Riviera. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1989 Buick Riviera (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 1989 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 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:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1989 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | Audi | Buick |
| Model | A3 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
