1998 Oldsmobile SS vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Oldsmobile SS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Oldsmobile SS 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 30 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
Because 2012 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Oldsmobile SS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Oldsmobile SS. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Oldsmobile SS. 1998 Oldsmobile SS has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Oldsmobile SS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Oldsmobile SS | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | SS | T5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 2000 mm |
