1955 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass

To start off, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 4,344 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Chevrolet Corvette (195 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 57 kg more than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1955 Chevrolet Corvette 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 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1955 Chevrolet Corvette (353 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1955 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass.

Compare all specifications:

1955 Chevrolet Corvette 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Make Chevrolet Oldsmobile
Model Corvette Cutlass
Year Released 1955 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4344 cc 2474 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 195 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 353 Nm 179 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1227 kg 1170 kg
Vehicle Length 4250 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2640 mm