1986 Buick Skylark vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Buick Skylark. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Buick Skylark weights approximately 145 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Buick Skylark (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1986 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Buick | Mazda |
Model | Skylark | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1986 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2474 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 179 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2270 mm |