Oldsmobile Eighty Eight, Oldsmobile Intrigue and Oldsmobile LSS

Oldsmobile Eighty EightA perennial high scorer in initial quality surveys, the Oldsmobile Eighty Eight returns for '98 with a new, quieter four-speed automatic, and minor improvements to its standard ABS. In other respects, the Eighty Eight is the same car that's developed a solid (if not vocal) following over the years. Steady improvements have kept the Eighty Eight current, though its virtues are timeless: plenty of interior room and abundant features. The only powertrain is a stone-reliable 3.8-liter/205-horsepower V-6 that's of GM's low-glamour/high-enjoyment school of thought. The Eighty Eight comes in well-equipped six-passenger base trim, and as the upscale five-passenger LS.

Oldsmobile IntrigueOldsmobile's take on the perfect family sedan mixes the precise, quality feel of the best imports with a uniquely American (and very appealing) powertrain. Mechanically related to the new Buick Regal and Pontiac Grand Prix, the Intrigue offers interior comfort and roominess on a par with Camry and Maxima. Ride and handling strike a good compromise in the base level suspension, with a sportier autobahn package optional. The Intrigue's principal point of differentiation from import competitors is its big-displacement 3.8-liter/195-horsepower OHV V-6. Though not as technologically elaborate as the multi-cam imports, it has more torque, great acceleration, and superior fuel economy.

Oldsmobile LSSIf you had to guess, you'd probably figure the LSS has the most in common with the Oldsmobile Aurora. The sporty performance sedan feel is present in force, and many styling cues echo those of the flagship Aurora. But in fact, the LSS shares platforms and the majority of parts with the understated Eighty Eight. We'll let that be our little secret. No major alterations are on top for the LSS in '98, other than a quieter four-speed transmission that will run 100,000 miles on its first dose of fluid. The basic engine is the same 3.8-liter/205-horsepower V-6 that comes in the Eighty Eight. To approximate Aurora performance, the natural choice is the LSS' optional supercharged 3.8-liter/240-horsepower V-6.