1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 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 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 213 more horse power than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (180 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass has manual transmission. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Oldsmobile |
| Model | SL | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
