1988 Buick Skylark vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1988 Buick Skylark. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 235 kg more than 1988 Buick Skylark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Opel Astra (241 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick Skylark. (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | Skylark | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
