2012 Nissan Altima vs. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 342 kg more than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (180 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Nissan Altima | 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Nissan | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Altima | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 349 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | CVT | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1512 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4595 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1796 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2675 mm | 2640 mm |
