2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 585 kg more than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 583 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Oldsmobile |
| Model | SL | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2025 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2740 mm |
