1986 Buick Skylark vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (248 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1986 Buick Skylark. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 870 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.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Buick Skylark. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Buick Skylark | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Skylark | S |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
