1988 BMW 535 vs. 1996 Buick Skylark
To start off, 1996 Buick Skylark is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Buick Skylark. (155 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1996 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 207 kg more than 1996 Buick Skylark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 1988 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1988 BMW 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Buick Skylark. (252 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Buick Skylark. 1996 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 1996 Buick Skylark | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 535 | Skylark |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1323 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 57 L |
