1986 BMW Z1 vs. 1996 Buick Skylark
To start off, 1996 Buick Skylark is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 3,130 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW Z1 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Buick Skylark. (155 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1996 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Skylark weights approximately 325 kg more than 1986 BMW Z1.
Because 1986 BMW Z1 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 1986 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Buick Skylark, 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 Skylark (252 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW Z1. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW Z1. 1996 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW Z1 | 1996 Buick Skylark | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z1 | Skylark |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 998 kg | 1323 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 57 L |
