2012 Mazda 3 vs. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,834 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 57 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda 3 | 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 3 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4506 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2740 mm |
