1996 Oldsmobile SS vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Oldsmobile SS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Oldsmobile SS would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Oldsmobile SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (380 Nm) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (155 Nm). This means 1996 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1996 Oldsmobile SS has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Oldsmobile SS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Oldsmobile SS | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | SS | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
