1988 Buick Skylark vs. 1980 Buick Century

To start off, 1988 Buick Skylark is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Skylark (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1980 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Buick Century weights approximately 240 kg more than 1988 Buick Skylark.

Because 1980 Buick Century 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 1980 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, both vehicles can yield 217 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Buick Skylark 1980 Buick Century
Make Buick Buick
Model Skylark Century
Year Released 1988 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2260 cc 3213 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 148 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 217 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1190 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 4990 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2760 mm