1988 Buick Skylark vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 18 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 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1988 Buick Skylark. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 298 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, 2006 Kia Optima (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick Skylark. (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Skylark | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Buick | Kia |
| Model | Skylark | Optima |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
