USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1979
| 442 W-30 | Hurst/Olds | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 370 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft | 290 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 5,735 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 123 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.7 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,794 mm |
| Length | 5,207 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,915 | 2,499 |
| Original MSRP | — | $10,295 |
| Value (Excellent) | $180,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Oldsmobile has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 with the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 370 hp compared to 170 hp, a 200-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile 442 uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,456 cc, while the Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds relies on a V8 OHV with 5,735 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 9.8 seconds. On the collector market, the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 commands a significant premium over the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.