1971 Dodge Challenger vs. 1972 Oldsmobile Toronado
To start off, 1972 Oldsmobile Toronado is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 7,446 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Oldsmobile Toronado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Oldsmobile Toronado (266 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Oldsmobile Toronado should accelerate faster than 1971 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Oldsmobile Toronado weights approximately 645 kg more than 1971 Dodge Challenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Dodge Challenger 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 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Oldsmobile Toronado, 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, 1972 Oldsmobile Toronado (518 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 Oldsmobile Toronado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Challenger | 1972 Oldsmobile Toronado | |
| Make | Dodge | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Challenger | Toronado |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 7446 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 518 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3110 mm |
