1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 66 kg more than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Because 1972 Pontiac Firebird 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 1972 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Pontiac |
| Model | Cutlass | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 64 L |
