1979 Dodge Mirada vs. 1996 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 1996 Oldsmobile SS is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Dodge Mirada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Dodge Mirada would be higher. At 5,209 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Dodge Mirada. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1979 Dodge Mirada.
Because 1979 Dodge Mirada 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 1979 Dodge Mirada. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile SS, 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, 1979 Dodge Mirada (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Oldsmobile SS. (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Dodge Mirada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Oldsmobile SS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Dodge Mirada | 1996 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | Dodge | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Mirada | SS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5209 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
