1979 Buick Electra vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass

To start off, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,736 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1979 Buick Electra. (104 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Buick Electra weights approximately 510 kg more than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass.

Because 1979 Buick Electra 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 1979 Buick Electra. 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, 1979 Buick Electra (274 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (252 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Buick Electra 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Make Buick Oldsmobile
Model Electra Cutlass
Year Released 1979 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5736 cc 3331 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 104 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 3200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 274 Nm 252 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1825 kg 1315 kg
Vehicle Length 5650 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 3030 mm 2640 mm