1986 Buick Skylark vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1986 Buick Skylark is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Buick Skylark (89 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Buick Skylark weights approximately 345 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Buick Skylark (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 1986 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Buick Skylark | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skylark | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
