USA vs USA — 1949 vs 1979
| 98 Starfire Convertible | Hurst/Olds | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 185 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 290 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,310 cc | 5,735 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.0 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 4,200 lbs | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,124 mm | 2,794 mm |
| Length | 5,341 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 2,499 |
| Original MSRP | $3,229 | $10,295 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1949 Oldsmobile 98 Starfire Convertible offers stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Oldsmobile has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1949 Oldsmobile 98 Starfire Convertible with the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1949 Oldsmobile 98 Starfire Convertible producing 185 hp and the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds delivering 170 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile 98 Starfire uses a V8 OHV (Rocket) displacing 5,310 cc, while the Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds relies on a V8 OHV with 5,735 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds edges ahead at 9.8 seconds versus 12.0 seconds. The Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 600 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.