1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 10 kg more than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass (380 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cutlass | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5735 cc | 3595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2720 mm |
