2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 204 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass has manual transmission. 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Explorer | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2640 mm |
