1986 Buick Skylark vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 25 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1986 Buick Skylark. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Skylark.
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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Buick Skylark. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Buick Skylark. 1986 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skylark | GTI |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
