1973 BMW 525 vs. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 525 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (124 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 525 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 525 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 1973 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1973 BMW 525 (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (203 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 525 | 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 525 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2640 mm |
