1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass has manual transmission. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Mazda |
| Model | Cutlass | 3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2639 mm |
