1968 Ford 17 vs. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford 17 would be higher. At 2,473 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1968 Ford 17. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 114 kg more than 1968 Ford 17. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Ford 17 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 1968 Ford 17. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford 17. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford 17 | 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 17 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
