1986 Buick Skylark vs. 2006 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 20 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 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Ranger (108 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1986 Buick Skylark. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ranger weights approximately 545 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 2006 Ford Ranger 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 2006 Ford Ranger. 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, 2006 Ford Ranger (257 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Buick Skylark. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Buick Skylark. 1986 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Ranger 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 | 2006 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | Skylark | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2990 mm |
