Oldsmobile Achieva Guide

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The Oldsmobile Achieva was a compact car produced by General Motors' Oldsmobile division from 1992 to 1998. It was introduced to replace the Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais and was built on the GM N-body platform, which it shared with the Buick Skylark and Pontiac Grand Am.

Design and Production
The Achieva was available in two main body styles: a 2-door coupe and a 4-door sedan. It featured a transverse front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout and was assembled in Lansing, Michigan. The car was designed by Gary Smith and was offered in several trim levels throughout its production run, including S, SC, SL, and the high-performance SCX model.

Engine and Performance
The Achieva was equipped with a variety of engines over its production years. Initially, it featured versions of the 2.3 L Quad 4 engine, including the base single-cam L40 "Quad OHC," the DOHC LD2, the high-output LG0, and the special "W41" variant used in the SCX model. In 1996, these were replaced by a revised 2.4 L version. Additionally, V6 options included the Buick-sourced 3.3 L "3300" V6, later replaced by Chevrolet's 3.1 L "3100" V6. The SCX model, in particular, was a standout with its high-performance 190-horsepower Quad 4 engine and specialized suspension tuning. This model was rare, with fewer than 1,650 units produced, making it a sought-after version among enthusiasts.

Features and Specifications
The Achieva offered a range of features that evolved over its production years. Key specifications included:

Wheelbase: 103.4 inches (2,626 mm)
Length: Approximately 187.9 inches (4,773 mm) for earlier models, slightly shorter for later models
Width: Varied slightly, with the 1994–98 models being wider than the earlier versions
Height: Around 53.2 inches (1,351 mm) for early models, slightly taller for later ones

Standard features included antilock brakes, and later models added driver-side airbags and other safety enhancements.

Market Position and Legacy
The Achieva was positioned as an affordable compact car, providing a competitive option in its segment. While it did not have standout features compared to some rivals, it offered good value for money. The Achieva was eventually succeeded by the Oldsmobile Alero in 1999. Despite its relatively short production run, the Achieva, particularly the SCX model, has gained a niche following among car enthusiasts who appreciate its unique place in the history of 1990s performance cars.

Year to Year Changes

1992 Achieva:
Achieva was offered in 4 different trim levels: S and SL, available on both coupes and sedans. Sporty SC and SCX were available in coupes. The base S offered a 120 hp 4-cylinder, while the SL had the 160 hp "Quad 4" engine standard, that was optional on the S model. A 160 hp V6 engine was optional for the SL. The SC coupe had a standard 180 hp high-output Quad 4 with 5-speed manual transmission or a 3 speed auto, with the V6 being an option.

1993 Achieva:
Achieva models saw a reduction in power across the engine lineup due to changes made to comply with stricter emission requirements. This resulted in all engine outputs being 5 hp lower for 1993 when paired with auto transmission. Including the SCX which was down to 185 hp for its final year. Other changes for 1993 included a revised front engine mount and changes to the Quad 4 block casting to address criticism for that engine's NVH characteristics.

1994 Achieva:
A driver-side airbag was added as a standard feature, and the Buick-developed 3.3L "3300" V6 was replaced by a Chevrolet-designed 3.1L "3100" V6. This V6 only came with a 4 speed automatic transmission.

1995 Achieva:
In 1995, trim levels were reduced. SC coupe and SL sedan, divided into two groups, Series I and Series II according to equipment. The Quad 4 with 150 hp and 3.1L V6 with 155 hp were the only available engines for 1995. New for 1995 was standard speed-variable power steering. The rear-axle suspension geometry has been improved by relocating the rear coil springs to the centerline of the axle to reduce forces transmitted to the vehicle body. Complementing that change is a rear anti-roll bar and, up front, stiffer bushings mounting the front struts and control arm bushings. The tires have also been "retuned" for less rolling resistance. Last year of front door mounted seatbelts (92-95).

1996 Achieva:
More standard features added, include standard air conditioning, daytime running lamps, and a new dashboard featuring revised gauges and a passenger-side airbag. A Series III equipment level was added while the Series I was now only available on the coupe. The new base/standard engine was a 2.4L four-cylinder "Twin Cam" that replaced the 2.3L "Quad 4". Front seatbelts now mounted on pillar (96-98).

1997 Achieva:
The lineup is simplified to two trim levels, Series I and II. The standard equipment roster is upgraded with the addition of an automatic transmission, larger touring tires, power exterior mirrors, driver's side adjustable lumbar support, and standard traction control. Side-impact standards are met. Series II Coupe gets new alloy cross-lace alloy wheels.

1998 Achieva:
Oldsmobile limited sales of the Achieva to fleets.