1981 Ford Falcon vs. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 Ford Falcon. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 190 kg more than 1981 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Falcon. (228 Nm). This means 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Falcon | 1997 Oldsmobile Alero | |
Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
Model | Falcon | Alero |
Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3273 cc | 3400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 271 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |