2009 Lotus Exige vs. 1997 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 2009 Lotus Exige 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, 2009 Lotus Exige (257 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1997 Oldsmobile SS. (202 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1997 Oldsmobile SS.
Because 2009 Lotus Exige 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 Lotus Exige. 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 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Exige. (236 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 1997 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Exige. 1997 Oldsmobile SS has automatic transmission and 2009 Lotus Exige has manual transmission. 2009 Lotus Exige will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Oldsmobile SS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Exige | 1997 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | Lotus | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Exige | SS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
