1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW M3 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | BMW |
| Model | Cutlass | M3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2761 mm |
