1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 38 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 4,269 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (108 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 422 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (279 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cutlass | GTI |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4269 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2578 mm |
