1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (120 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 404 kg more than 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (305 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Oldsmobile |
| Model | SL | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1486 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
