1986 Buick Skylark vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1986 Buick Skylark. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 535 kg more than 1986 Buick Skylark. 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (229 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Buick Skylark. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Buick Skylark. 1986 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Caravan 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 | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Buick | Dodge |
| Model | Skylark | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2880 mm |
