Stratum
The Stratum is a mid-sized 4 door station wagon that is available for the player in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and Grand Theft Auto IV. The Stratum has a more streamlined design than other station wagons in the games. It cannot be upgraded in TransFender, but can be upgraded at Wheel Arch Angels in Ocean Flats, San Fierro since it is considered a tuner. It is one of the gang cars used by the San Fierro Triads, the other two being the Elegy and the Sultan. It also highly increases the player’s sex appeal. In GTA IV, after collecting all thirty cars for Stevie he agrees to purchase cars from Niko Bellic, with the Stratum fetching $1,800.
Design
The San Andreas Stratum closely resembles a early/mid-90’s Honda Accord wagon. Considering the performance and dual-exhaust ports, it is likely meant to be a V6, despite this option not being available on the Accord until reaching the fifth generation, beginning in the 1994 model year (It's appearance is also closer to 1994–1997 Accord station wagons).
The GTA IV version of the Stratum still resembles a 1994–1997 Honda Accord station wagon on the sides of the car, but has the front of a R32 Nissan Skyline and the rear has been re-arranged and is more similar to a Subaru Impreza Wagon.
Performance
GTA San Andreas
Acceleration and speed are surprisingly good, considering the Stratum’s size. The engine is most likely a powerful V6 and the drivetrain is rear-drive, making the Stratum a good selection as a drive-by vehicle. The body is, however, weakly constructed, making the car susceptible to intense damage from high-speed impacts and heavy gunfire.
GTA IV
The Zirconium Stratum 2.6GT is powered by what feels like a V6, or a high-torque I4, coupled to a 5 speed gearbox in a RWD configuration. Acceleration is quite frankly, dismal. The Stratum takes more time accelerating than anything else. Top speed is limited due to the weight of the vehicle, and its poor aerodynamic coefficient. Handling on the Stratum is quite good, though oversteer can be dramatic at times. The suspension is a good blend of "firm enough" while keeping bumps neutralized. Braking is acceptable, and ABS is standard on all Stratum wagons. Crash deformation is very good, with the Stratum keeping most of it's shape in an accident, though build quality is less than desirable; often leaving the vehicle disabled after a few impacts.
Modifications
Locations
GTA San Andreas
- Spawns in the Wang Cars showroom in San Fierro after completing the asset missions.
- Spawns near the Four Dragons Casino in Las Venturas
- In Sindacco Abattoir during the mission You've Had Your Chips.
GTA IV
- The Stratum can spawn almost everywhere, as it's a very common car in Liberty City.