1987 Buick Skylark vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 21 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1987 Buick Skylark. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 188 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 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Buick Skylark. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Skylark. (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Skylark. 1987 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Buick Skylark | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skylark | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
