1981 BMW 528 vs. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 528 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 528 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 528. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1981 BMW 528 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 528 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 528 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 528 | 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 528 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2640 mm |
