1989 Buick Skylark vs. 2012 BMW 530
To start off, 2012 BMW 530 is newer by 23 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 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 530 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1989 Buick Skylark. (160 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Skylark.
Because 2012 BMW 530 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 2012 BMW 530. 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, 2012 BMW 530 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Skylark. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Buick Skylark | 2012 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | Skylark | 530 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
