1996 Mazda 121 vs. 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass (120 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 422 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, 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, 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass (305 Nm) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm). This means 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda 121 | 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
Model | 121 | Cutlass |
Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1753 cc | 4343 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 305 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1486 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2750 mm |