2005 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Buick Skylark
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 9 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 14 more horse power than 2005 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Buick Skylark.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 318. 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, 1996 Buick Skylark (252 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318. 1996 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW 318 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:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 1996 Buick Skylark | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 318 | Skylark |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1323 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
