1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight vs. 1974 Volkswagen 181
To start off, 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen 181. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen 181 would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight weights approximately 855 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen 181.
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 Ninety-Eight has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen 181 has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen 181 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight | 1974 Volkswagen 181 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ninety-Eight | 181 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4129 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5610 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2410 mm |
