USA vs USA — 1971 vs 1991
| Riviera GS (Boattail) | Roadmaster Estate Wagon | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 330 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 450 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 5,733 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | — |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 2,944 mm |
| Length | 5,523 mm | 5,528 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $30,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1971 Buick Riviera GS (Boattail) brings more power to the table, and the 1991 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon answers with better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Buick has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1971 Buick Riviera GS (Boattail) with the 1991 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1971 Buick Riviera GS (Boattail) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 180 hp, a 150-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Buick Riviera uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,456 cc, while the Buick Roadmaster relies on a V8 with 5,733 cc. On the collector market, the 1971 Buick Riviera GS (Boattail) commands a significant premium over the 1991 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.