1988 BMW 524 vs. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass (177 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 110 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass (217 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 524 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2740 mm |
