USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1971
| Cutlass Hurst/Olds | Torino Cobra | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 390 hp | 370 hp |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 7,030 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 5.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.9 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,650 lbs | 3,900 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,972 mm |
| Length | 5,156 mm | 5,359 mm |
| Units Produced | 515 | 3,054 |
| Original MSRP | $4,025 | $3,295 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1971 Ford Torino Cobra stands out for quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Muscle Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds and 1971 Ford Torino Cobra is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 370 hp, a 20-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile Cutlass uses a V8 OHV (Oldsmobile 455) displacing 7,456 cc, while the Ford Torino relies on a V8 OHV with 7,030 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Ford Torino Cobra edges ahead at 5.8 seconds versus 5.9 seconds. The Oldsmobile Cutlass carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 250 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 515 units built, the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds is considerably scarcer than the Ford Torino's 3,054 examples.