1987 Buick Skylark vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 22 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1987 Buick Skylark. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1987 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Skylark. (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Buick Skylark | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Buick | Kia |
| Model | Skylark | Optima |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
