1996 Buick Skylark vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Buick Skylark is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,130 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Skylark (155 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Skylark weights approximately 443 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Buick Skylark (252 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Buick Skylark | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skylark | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3130 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1323 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2480 mm |
