1988 Buick Skylark vs. 2004 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 158 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 745 kg more than 1988 Buick Skylark.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Buick Skylark. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick Skylark. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick Skylark. 1988 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Skylark | 2004 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | Skylark | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3331 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2840 mm |
