1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 1996 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 1997 Nissan Maxima is newer by 1 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 100 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima.
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 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm). This means 1996 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 1996 Oldsmobile SS has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Maxima 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:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 1996 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | Nissan | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Maxima | SS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2820 mm |
