1971 BMW 3 vs. 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 26 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 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 20 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, 1997 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 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 3 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 76 L |
