1981 BMW 525 vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 525 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Because 1981 BMW 525 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 1981 BMW 525. 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 (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
Model | 525 | Cutlass |
Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2640 mm |