1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1997 Renault Clio

To start off, 1997 Renault Clio is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass (248 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1997 Renault Clio. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 945 kg more than 1997 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Renault Clio, 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 Cutlass (502 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 417 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Clio. (85 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Clio. 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1997 Renault Clio has manual transmission. 1997 Renault Clio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 1997 Renault Clio
Make Oldsmobile Renault
Model Cutlass Clio
Year Released 1972 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 7462 cc 1170 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 248 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 502 Nm 85 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1800 kg 855 kg
Vehicle Length 5270 mm 3710 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2850 mm 2550 mm