1971 Ford Mustang vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,726 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (251 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (130 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 492 kg more than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Because 1971 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (230 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Mustang. (146 Nm). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Mustang. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1971 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1971 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Ford Mustang | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
Model | Mustang | Cutlass |
Year Released | 1971 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4726 cc | 2837 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 251 HP | 130 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 230 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 76 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1492 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1810 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2740 mm |