1978 BMW 320 vs. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1978 BMW 320 is newer by 4 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 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 481 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 770 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
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. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 320 | 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 320 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5735 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2960 mm |
