USA vs USA — 1962 vs 1979
| Jetfire Turbo Rocket V8 | Hurst/Olds | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 225 lb-ft | 290 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,523 cc | 5,735 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 112 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,850 lbs | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,794 mm |
| Length | 4,775 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 9,607 | 2,499 |
| Original MSRP | $3,049 | $10,295 |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
On balance, the 1962 Oldsmobile Jetfire Turbo Rocket V8 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds counters with greater rarity, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1962 Oldsmobile Jetfire Turbo Rocket V8 for outright capability, or the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Oldsmobile has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1962 Oldsmobile Jetfire Turbo Rocket V8 with the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1962 Oldsmobile Jetfire Turbo Rocket V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 215 hp compared to 170 hp, a 45-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile Jetfire uses a V8 OHV Turbocharged displacing 3,523 cc, while the Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds relies on a V8 OHV with 5,735 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1962 Oldsmobile Jetfire Turbo Rocket V8 edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 9.8 seconds. The Oldsmobile Jetfire carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 750 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,499 units built, the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds is considerably scarcer than the Oldsmobile Jetfire's 9,607 examples.