2009 BMW 320 vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 21 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Because 2009 BMW 320 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 2009 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 320 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:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 320 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2640 mm |
