2009 BMW 330 vs. 1997 Buick Riviera
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 12 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, 2009 BMW 330 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Buick Riviera. (180 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 66 kg more than 2009 BMW 330.
Because 2009 BMW 330 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 2009 BMW 330. 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, 2009 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Buick Riviera. (364 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Buick Riviera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 330 | 1997 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 330 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 88 L |
