2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1998 Buick Riviera
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 4,130 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1998 Buick Riviera. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick Riviera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Riviera weights approximately 376 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Buick Riviera (287 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1998 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z4 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 100.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
