1989 Buick Skylark vs. 2002 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2002 Cadillac XLR is newer by 13 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 4,570 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1989 Buick Skylark. (160 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 378 kg more than 1989 Buick Skylark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Cadillac XLR 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 2002 Cadillac XLR. 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, 2002 Cadillac XLR (407 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Skylark. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Buick Skylark | 2002 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | Buick | Cadillac |
| Model | Skylark | XLR |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 4570 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 316 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 250 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 | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 68 L |
