1974 Volvo 140 vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 140. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 140.
Because 1974 Volvo 140 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 Volvo 140. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 140. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 140 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Volvo | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 140 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
