1958 Ford 12 M vs. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford 12 M.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1958 Ford 12 M has manual transmission. 1958 Ford 12 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Ford 12 M | 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 12 M | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1170 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2960 mm |
