1989 Buick Skylark vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1989 Buick Skylark. (160 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Skylark weights approximately 76 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 1997 Volkswagen W12. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 468 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Skylark. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Buick Skylark | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Skylark | W12 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 3344 cc | 5600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | W |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 420 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 719 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1276 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1110 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |