1986 Chrysler Laser vs. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1986 Chrysler Laser is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1986 Chrysler Laser. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1986 Chrysler Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 475 kg more than 1986 Chrysler Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Chrysler Laser, 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, 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass (381 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Chrysler Laser. (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Chrysler Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Chrysler Laser | 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Chrysler | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Laser | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2960 mm |
