2008 BMW M3 vs. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass

To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW M3 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 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW M3 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Make BMW Oldsmobile
Model M3 Cutlass
Year Released 2008 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3246 cc 2474 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 338 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 365 Nm 179 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1655 kg 1170 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2640 mm