1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 77 more horse power than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 62 kg more than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Pontiac Firebird 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Pontiac |
| Model | Cutlass | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2834 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
