1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2008 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2008 Panoz Esperante is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 7 kg more than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2008 Panoz Esperante has manual transmission. 2008 Panoz Esperante will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2008 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Panoz |
| Model | Cutlass | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 420 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2700 mm |
