1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 3,331 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 355 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-2 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 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (252 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-2 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | RX-2 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 3331 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2640 mm |
