1996 Oldsmobile SS vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 16 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, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1996 Oldsmobile SS. (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Oldsmobile SS.
Because 2012 Lexus IS 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 2012 Lexus IS. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Oldsmobile SS. (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Oldsmobile SS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Oldsmobile SS | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Lexus |
| Model | SS | IS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 318 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1801 mm |
