2006 BMW M3 vs. 1990 Buick Skylark

To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1990 Buick Skylark. (110 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1990 Buick Skylark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 BMW M3 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Buick Skylark. (183 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Buick Skylark. 1990 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW M3 1990 Buick Skylark
Make BMW Buick
Model M3 Skylark
Year Released 2006 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3244 cc 2471 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 338 HP 110 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 365 Nm 183 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 101.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 8.3:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 180 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1655 kg 1195 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 51 L