1996 Buick Skylark vs. 2011 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2011 Ford S-Max 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, 1996 Buick Skylark (155 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2011 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford S-Max weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 Buick Skylark.
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, 2011 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Buick Skylark. (252 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford S-Max 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 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2011 Ford S-Max 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 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | Skylark | S-Max |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3130 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1323 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
