Oldsmobile 442

vs

Oldsmobile Toronado

USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1966

Oldsmobile 442 (1968)
Oldsmobile Toronado (1966)
Specifications
442 W-30Toronado
Horsepower370 hp385 hp
Torque500 lb-ft470 lb-ft
Engine Size7,456 cc7,456 cc
0-60 mph5.7 sec7.5 sec
Top Speed123 mph135 mph
¼ Mile13.7 sec15.5 sec
Wheelbase2,845 mm3,048 mm
Length5,207 mm5,410 mm
Units Produced1,91540,963
Value (Excellent)$180,000$65,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity8/104/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 offers quicker acceleration, greater rarity, while the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado counters with higher top speed, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

Within the Oldsmobile stable, the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 and 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Oldsmobile badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 producing 370 hp and the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado delivering 385 hp. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,915 units built, the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 is considerably scarcer than the Oldsmobile Toronado's 40,963 examples. On the collector market, the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 commands a significant premium over the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.