1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1976 Mazda Cosmo

To start off, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass (123 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 230 kg more than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 Mazda Cosmo 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 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass (203 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda Cosmo. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda Cosmo.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass 1976 Mazda Cosmo
Make Oldsmobile Mazda
Model Cutlass Cosmo
Year Released 1981 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2966 cc 1769 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 123 HP 93 HP
Engine RPM 4900 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 203 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1690 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2520 mm