1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,835 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (124 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 325 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 323 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
