2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 20 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 178 kg more than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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:

2008 Volkswagen Jetta 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Make Volkswagen Oldsmobile
Model Jetta Cutlass
Year Released 2008 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 163 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 237 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1378 kg 1200 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2640 mm