When it comes to cars, everyone knows that the letter “S” stands for Sport. But when you see two of them written together, “SS”, well, that’s a different story. So, what is the difference between S and SS? Let’s take a closer look.
First, let’s define what each letter means. “S” is often used by car manufacturers to denote a specific trim level of a model. For example, a Toyota Camry might have an “S” trim level that includes sportier styling and suspension tuning. Other automakers might use “S” to signify a higher-performance model, such as the Audi S6 or BMW M5.
“SS”, on the other hand, tends to be used exclusively by General Motors (GM) for its high-performance vehicles. Chevrolet, in particular, is known for its SS models. In fact, the first-ever SS car was the 1961 Chevrolet Impala Super Sport, which featured a V8 engine and upgraded suspension.
So, what makes a GM car an SS? Typically, it means that the car has a larger, more powerful engine than the standard model. For example, the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro SS comes with a 6.2-liter V8 that produces 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque, compared to the base Camaro’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out 275 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
In addition to a more powerful engine, SS models often come with upgraded suspensions, brakes, and other performance-enhancing features like larger wheels and tires. The result is a car that’s built for speed and handling, whether you’re tearing up the track or cruising down the highway.
Another key difference between S and SS models is the price. Naturally, SS models cost more than their standard counterparts due to the increased performance and other upgrades. For example, the base price of a 2020 Chevrolet Camaro SS is $42,995, which is about $13,000 more than the base Camaro 1LS.
Of course, there are exceptions to these generalizations. For example, the 2020 Subaru Impreza has an “Sport” trim level that comes with sportier styling and suspension tuning, but no added horsepower. Additionally, some car manufacturers might use a different naming convention altogether, like “R” for Racing or “GT” for Grand Touring.
So, which is better, S or SS? That largely depends on your priorities. If you want a sportier-looking car that’s fun to drive and doesn’t break the bank, an S trim level might be perfect for you. On the other hand, if you crave raw power and top-of-the-line performance, an SS model might be worth the extra investment.
Regardless of which one you choose, both S and SS models offer a more exciting and engaging driving experience than standard models. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or pushing your car to the limit on the track, S and SS models are sure to satisfy your need for speed.
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