1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,269 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass (108 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 995 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass (279 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (86 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Fiesta | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1118 cc | 4269 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2850 mm |
