1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 8 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 2,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (130 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 1014 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 1996 Caterham 7 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 Caterham 7. 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1996 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 1996 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
Make | Caterham | Oldsmobile |
Model | 7 | Cutlass |
Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2837 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 130 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.9:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1492 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 61 L |