2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1986 Buick Skylark
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1986 Buick Skylark. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1986 Buick Skylark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Buick Skylark. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Buick Skylark. 1986 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1986 Buick Skylark | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z4 | Skylark |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
