2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight weights approximately 494 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.
Because 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight 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 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. (278 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1981 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Traverse | Ninety-Eight |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 4129 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 3030 mm |
