1971 BMW 3 vs. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
Model | 3 | Cutlass |
Year Released | 1971 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2640 mm |