Buick Skylark (6th generation)
A transition to the modern N-body era, blending compact efficiency with traditional Buick comfort.
- Power
- 92 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.0 s
- Top speed
- 106 mph
- Est. value
- $825–$2k
About the Buick Skylark
The 1986 Buick Skylark marked the debut of the sixth-generation model, shifting the nameplate to General Motors' front-wheel-drive N-body platform. While the coupe variant was initially marketed as the Somerset, the Skylark name was reserved for the four-door sedan, which featured a more conservative, formal roofline. Powered by the reliable 2.5-litre 'Iron Duke' inline-four, it prioritised fuel economy and ride quality over performance. This generation represented Buick's effort to downsize its lineup while maintaining the plush interior appointments and quiet cruising characteristics expected by its traditional customer base.
Buick Skylark specs
The Buick Skylark produces 92 bhp (69 kW) and 182 Nm (134 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.0 seconds and has a top speed of 106 mph (170 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Skylark |
| Generation | Sixth Generation (6th generation) |
| Trim | 2.5 |
| Years | 1985–1991 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $10,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.5-litre Iron Duke I4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,471 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 92 bhp (69 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 182 Nm (134 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 11.0 s |
| Top speed | 106 mph (170 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,166 kg (2,571 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 79 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Buick Skylark worth?
A typical Buick Skylark is estimated to be worth $825 – $2,200 (about £615 – £1,600).
Its original price when new was about $10,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Buick Skylark rarity in CarSpot
The Buick Skylark is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Buick Skylark fun facts
- In 1986, the Skylark name was only used for the sedan; the equivalent coupe was sold as the Buick Somerset.
- The 2.5-litre engine is the famous Pontiac-built 'Iron Duke', known for its extreme durability and use in the USPS Grumman LLV mail truck.
- This generation was the first Skylark to feature a transverse engine layout and MacPherson strut front suspension.