2004 BMW 318 vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 16 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 2,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (130 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 192 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. 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 (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 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:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 318 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1492 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
