1998 BMW 320 vs. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 54 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 1998 BMW 320. 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, 1998 BMW 320 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 320 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2740 mm |
