1973 Buick Skylark vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1973 Buick Skylark. (150 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 60 kg more than 1973 Buick Skylark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Buick Skylark. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (371 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Buick Skylark. (366 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Buick Skylark | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skylark | Passat |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
