2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (130 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 199 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 Dodge Nitro 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 Dodge Nitro. 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 Dodge Nitro (314 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Dodge | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Nitro | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 2837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1492 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 61 L |
