2009 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Oldsmobile SS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Oldsmobile SS would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile SS (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320.
Because 2009 BMW 320 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 2009 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Oldsmobile SS (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1997 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 320 | SS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1900 mm |
