1973 Buick Skylark vs. 2009 Ford Focus

To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 36 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, 1973 Buick Skylark (150 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Buick Skylark weights approximately 153 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Buick Skylark 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 1973 Buick Skylark. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, 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, 1973 Buick Skylark (366 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (155 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1973 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Buick Skylark 2009 Ford Focus
Make Buick Ford
Model Skylark Focus
Year Released 1973 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5724 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 366 Nm 155 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4150 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1605 kg 1452 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4340 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2960 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 53 L