1988 Buick Skylark vs. 2009 Kia Rio
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 21 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 3,331 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Skylark (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rio. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Skylark weights approximately 61 kg more than 2009 Kia Rio. 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, 1988 Buick Skylark (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio. 1988 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Rio 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 | 2009 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Buick | Kia |
| Model | Skylark | Rio |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3331 cc | 1343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1144 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
