USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1972
| Superbird 426 Hemi | Cutlass 442 W-30 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 425 hp | 270 hp |
| Torque | 490 lb-ft | 490 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,981 cc | 7,456 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 6.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,750 lbs | 3,700 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,946 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 5,639 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,920 | 772 |
| Original MSRP | $4,298 | $3,840 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $140,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 9/10 |
On balance, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 W-30 counters with greater rarity, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi for outright capability, or the 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 W-30 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Muscle Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi versus the 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 W-30. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi holds a clear advantage in raw power with 425 hp compared to 270 hp, a 155-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Plymouth Superbird uses a V8 OHV (426 Hemi) displacing 6,981 cc, while the Oldsmobile Cutlass relies on a V8 OHV with 7,456 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.1 seconds. On the collector market, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi commands a significant premium over the 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 W-30, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.