1996 Buick Skylark vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2011 BMW 535 is newer by 15 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, 2011 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1996 Buick Skylark. (155 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1996 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 535 weights approximately 517 kg more than 1996 Buick Skylark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 535 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 2011 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2011 BMW 535 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Buick Skylark. (252 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Buick Skylark. 1996 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 535 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 | 2011 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | Skylark | 535 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3130 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1323 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2969 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
