1996 BMW M3 vs. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 148 kg more than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | M3 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2740 mm |
