1986 Buick Skylark vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1986 Buick Skylark. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Buick Skylark weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Buick Skylark. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Buick Skylark. 1986 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Buick | Mazda |
Model | Skylark | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2474 cc | 1307 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 179 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |