1989 Buick Skylark vs. 1981 Buick Century
To start off, 1989 Buick Skylark is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Skylark (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick Century weights approximately 236 kg more than 1989 Buick Skylark.
Because 1981 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 1981 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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:
| 1989 Buick Skylark | 1981 Buick Century | |
| Make | Buick | Buick |
| Model | Skylark | Century |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| 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 | 1194 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 |
