1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass (164 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 220 kg more than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Because 1978 Chrysler Valiant 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 1978 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Chrysler | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Valiant | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2630 mm |
