2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,269 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (108 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 307 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (279 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Malibu | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 4269 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2850 mm |
