1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass

To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass (160 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta.

Because 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass (251 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm). This means 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Ford Fiesta 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Make Ford Oldsmobile
Model Fiesta Cutlass
Year Released 1981 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 3344 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 83 HP 160 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 126 Nm 251 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Length 3570 mm 4840 mm
Vehicle Width 1590 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2310 mm 2670 mm


 

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