1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass (177 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 61 kg more than 1974 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 Volvo 244. 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244. 1974 Volvo 244 has automatic transmission and 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass has manual transmission. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 244 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volvo |
| Model | Cutlass | 244 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2125 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2650 mm |
