1990 BMW 850 vs. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass

To start off, 1990 BMW 850 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1990 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 850 (297 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 850 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 BMW 850 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 1990 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1990 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (203 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass.

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