1989 Buick Skylark vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 20 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 3,454 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1989 Buick Skylark. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 546 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 2009 Lexus IS 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 2009 Lexus IS. 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, 2009 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Skylark. (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Buick Skylark | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Buick | Lexus |
| Model | Skylark | IS |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3454 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2740 mm |
