1999 BMW 540 vs. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 451 kg more than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 540 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 1999 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (203 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 540 | 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
Model | 540 | Cutlass |
Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Torque | 439 Nm | 203 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |