1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,269 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (108 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 411 kg more than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Because 1974 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 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass (279 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Cutlass | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 4269 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2850 mm |
