1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1978 Alpine A 442 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 870 kg more than 1978 Alpine A 442.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1978 Alpine A 442 has manual transmission. 1978 Alpine A 442 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 442 | 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Alpine | Oldsmobile |
| Model | A 442 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1610 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2960 mm |
