2002 Acura NSX vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass

To start off, 2002 Acura NSX is newer by 14 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura NSX (249 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura NSX weights approximately 230 kg more than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 Acura NSX 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 2002 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2002 Acura NSX (285 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 2002 Acura NSX has automatic transmission and 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass has manual transmission. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura NSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Acura NSX 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Make Acura Oldsmobile
Model NSX Cutlass
Year Released 2002 1988
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2977 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 249 HP 163 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 237 Nm
Torque RPM 5300 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 1200 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1180 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2640 mm