2009 Cadillac STS vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (130 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 143 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 2009 Cadillac STS 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 Cadillac STS. 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, 2009 Cadillac STS (369 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac STS | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Cadillac | Oldsmobile |
| Model | STS | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 2837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1492 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 61 L |
