1977 Datsun 280 vs. 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Because 1977 Datsun 280 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 1977 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280. 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Datsun | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 280 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2640 mm |
