1987 Buick Skylark vs. 2001 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2001 Cadillac XLR is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1987 Buick Skylark. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 464 kg more than 1987 Buick Skylark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Cadillac XLR 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 2001 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2001 Cadillac XLR (401 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Skylark. (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Buick Skylark | 2001 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | Buick | Cadillac |
| Model | Skylark | XLR |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 4565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 316 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2690 mm |
