1998 Oldsmobile SS vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Oldsmobile SS is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Oldsmobile SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Oldsmobile SS (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 1998 Oldsmobile SS (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Oldsmobile SS | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | SS | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1630 mm |
