2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,007 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (138 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 524 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, 1989 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 (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Explorer | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4007 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2740 mm |
