1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 720 kg more than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (180 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Oldsmobile |
| Model | S | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
