2004 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 1971 Oldsmobile 442
To start off, 2004 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile 442. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile 442 would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile 442 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 (260 HP) has 90 more horse power than 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. (170 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 should accelerate faster than 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 weights approximately 313 kg more than 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Oldsmobile 442 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 1971 Oldsmobile 442. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 (502 Nm) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. (271 Nm). This means 1971 Oldsmobile 442 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Oldsmobile Alero.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Oldsmobile Alero | 1971 Oldsmobile 442 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Alero | 442 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3343 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 260 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1417 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2850 mm |
