1998 Oldsmobile SS vs. 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser
To start off, 1998 Oldsmobile SS is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Oldsmobile SS (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser.
Because 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser 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 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (380 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Oldsmobile SS. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Oldsmobile SS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Oldsmobile SS | 1973 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Oldsmobile |
| Model | SS | Vista Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1960 mm |
