USA vs Australia — 1968 vs 1971
| 442 W-30 | Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 370 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 5,766 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 sec | 6.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 123 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.7 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 5,207 mm | 4,870 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,915 | 300 |
| Value (Excellent) | $180,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 9/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 excels in more power, quicker acceleration, better value, while the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) stands out for higher top speed, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 against the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Australia. The 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 370 hp compared to 300 hp, a 70-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 Ford Falcon relies on a V8 OHV with 5,766 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 6.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 300 units built, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) is considerably scarcer than the Oldsmobile 442's 1,915 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) commands a significant premium over the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.