2004 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Buick Skylark
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 15 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 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Skylark (160 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 304 kg more than 1989 Buick Skylark.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 1989 Buick Skylark (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 1989 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1989 Buick Skylark | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 318 | Skylark |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3344 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
