2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2003 Cadillac CTS is newer by 15 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 3,331 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (158 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 305 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 2003 Cadillac CTS 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 2003 Cadillac CTS. 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (252 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Cadillac CTS. (245 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Cadillac CTS. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2003 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2003 Cadillac CTS 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:
| 2003 Cadillac CTS | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Cadillac | Oldsmobile |
| Model | CTS | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 3331 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 68 L |
