1996 OLDSMOBILE Silhouette 3.4L V6 4AT (185 HP)

Vehicle Overview

The second generation of the Silhouette was introduced in 1996, and it was built on the same platform and in the same assembly plant as Chevrolet’s Venture.

With an increased demand for minivans in Europe and a constant volume on the American shores for this type of vehicle, GM couldn’t miss the opportunity to launch a second generation for its car-based minivan. In addition, it offered it under the Oldsmobile badge as an upscale version for the Venture.

While its predecessor looked like a bullet on wheels with its sharp nose, the 1996 model was closer to a proper family van. The taller front fascia featured an Oldsmobile-specific grille with a vertical slat that sported the brand’s badge in the middle. Its headlights were taller and broader than on its predecessor, offering better visibility on the road. A black rubber cladding adorned the front bumper and the side panels, protecting the car from bumps in the parking lot. To prevent its customers from damaging other peoples’ cars, Oldsmobile installed sliding doors on both sides for the rear passengers.

Inside, the Silhouette offered room for up to seven adult passengers. However, the last row didn’t provide enough room for full-grown adults. Nevertheless, the trunk space was excellent, with the last seats folded or removed. Moreover, the car could’ve been transformed into a proper furniture carrier if only the first two seats were kept in place.

Under the hood, GM installed a 3.4-liter V6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic gearbox. To keep the production costs low, the automaker offered only one drivetrain option with a front-wheel drive configuration.