1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (160 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Because 1976 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 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass (251 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm). This means 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cutlass | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2651 mm |
