1971 BMW 3 vs. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 18 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 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (177 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 85 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 1989 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 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
Model | 3 | Cutlass |
Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 177 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1465 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2740 mm |