The 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva is an extremely tight-fitting compact. The standard options are nothing special, but options allow for a loaded vehicle. The high safety ratings make up for any lack of special features. Overall, it is a decent car without decent seating arrangements.
The Range
Body Styles: coupe, sedan
Engines: 2.4-liter four-cylinder, 3.1-liter V-6
Transmissions: five-speed manual, four-speed automatic
Models: Oldsmobile Achieva SC, Oldsmobile Achieva SL
What's New
The 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva receives a number of upgrades for the 1996 model year. These include a brand new interior design with dual airbags, a new engine, and optional traction control.
Exterior
The 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva does not receive any changes to the exterior, but that is because the design is clean and attractive. Now standard are daytime running lights for improved visibility on the road. It comes in 10 color options. The 14-inch wheels are either aluminum or the optional alloy. Exterior options include rear spoiler, fog lights, and power exterior mirrors.
Interior
On the inside, the 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva's seatbelts are repositioned for extra safety and comfort. Air-conditioning is now standard. The instrument panel remains simple with large analog gauges and controls. Unfortunately, the interior is extremely cramped, even for the front seats. The backseat is difficult to access, especially for the SC coupe model. The AM/FM stereo system can be replaced with an AM/FM/Cassette/CD stereo system. Other interior options include cruise control, power windows and locks, and a keyless entry system.
Performance & Handling
The 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva handles like most compacts. The 1996 version features a 2.4-liter Twin Cam with 150 hp at a 6000 rpm. Standard features include a five-speed manual transmission, but this can be replaced with an automatic transmission. Any model with the optional automatic transmission also gets traction control as part of the deal. There is an option for a large, 3.1-liter, V-6 engine. While it is more than suitable for daily use, it certainly isn't a race winner.
Safety
The 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva comes standard with a four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) for powerful stopping control. It also comes standard with driver and passenger front side airbags. In crash testing conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the driver front side collision test received four out of five stars for overall safety. The SC's passenger front side collision test received five out of five stars. The Achieva also comes with optional traction control. Overall, it offers a great amount of safety.
EPA Fuel Economy
Oldsmobile Achieva: 23/33 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Standard anti-lock brake system
- Safety ratings
- Excellent value
You Won't Like
- Cramped interior
- Price compared to competition
Sum Up
Small, even for a compact.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Honda Accord
- Buick Skylark
- Chevrolet Beretta
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- Ford Contour