1998 BMW 330 vs. 1996 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 1998 BMW 330 is newer by 2 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 57 more horse power than 1998 BMW 330. (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 330.
Because 1998 BMW 330 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 1998 BMW 330. 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, 1998 BMW 330 (390 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Oldsmobile SS. (380 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Oldsmobile SS. 1996 Oldsmobile SS has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 330 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:
| 1998 BMW 330 | 1996 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 330 | SS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
