1996 Buick Skylark vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Buick Skylark 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 56 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Skylark weights approximately 14 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (241 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1996 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Buick Skylark | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skylark | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3130 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1323 kg | 1309 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
