1989 Buick Skylark vs. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C
To start off, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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 3,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (592 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 432 more horse power than 1989 Buick Skylark. (160 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C weights approximately 158 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 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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 McLaren MP4-12C. 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 McLaren MP4-12C (600 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Skylark. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Buick Skylark | 2012 McLaren MP4-12C | |
| Make | Buick | McLaren |
| Model | Skylark | MP4-12C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 592 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1276 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1199 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2670 mm |
