1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 5,751 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Gran Torino should accelerate faster than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 338 kg more than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 1972 Ford Gran Torino. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (374 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Gran Torino | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5751 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 374 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1742 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 76 L |
