2006 BMW 320 vs. 1996 Buick Riviera

To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2006 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1996 Buick Riviera.

Because 2006 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Buick Riviera (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 320. 1996 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 320 1996 Buick Riviera
Make BMW Buick
Model 320 Riviera
Year Released 2006 1996
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 3789 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 202 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 312 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.4:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1835 kg 1700 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 5270 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2820 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 75 L