1979 Oldsmobile Toronado 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 Oldsmobile Toronado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Oldsmobile Toronado would be higher. At 4,128 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Oldsmobile Toronado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1979 Oldsmobile Toronado. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1979 Oldsmobile Toronado.
Because 1979 Oldsmobile Toronado 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 Oldsmobile Toronado. 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, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Oldsmobile Toronado. (278 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Oldsmobile Toronado.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Oldsmobile Toronado | 1996 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Toronado | SS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4128 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1900 mm |
