1973 Buick Skylark vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 39 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1973 Buick Skylark. (150 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1973 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 702 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 2012 Volkswagen T5 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Buick Skylark. (366 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Buick Skylark | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skylark | T5 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
