2009 Nissan Altima vs. 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass (248 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Altima. (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 471 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima, 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, 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass (502 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Altima. (220 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Altima | 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Nissan | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Altima | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2487 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2850 mm |
