1996 Oldsmobile SS vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf (266 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Oldsmobile SS. (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Oldsmobile SS.
Because 2012 Volkswagen Golf is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Oldsmobile SS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (350 Nm). This means 1996 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 1996 Oldsmobile SS has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | SS | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
