2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 21 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), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 362 more horse power than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 860 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 613 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass has manual transmission. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Make Mercedes-Benz Oldsmobile
Model SL Cutlass
Year Released 2008 1987
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5513 cc 2260 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 510 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 830 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 1900 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2045 kg 1185 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2640 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 68 L