1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 1986 Volvo 242 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 242 (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 242 should accelerate faster than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass (180 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
Make | Oldsmobile | Volvo |
Model | Cutlass | 242 |
Year Released | 1985 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2474 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2660 mm |