USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1972
| Cutlass Hurst/Olds | Cutlass 442 W-30 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 390 hp | 270 hp |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft | 490 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 7,456 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 6.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.9 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,650 lbs | 3,700 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 5,156 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 515 | 772 |
| Original MSRP | $4,025 | $3,840 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $140,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 9/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds offers more power, quicker acceleration, while the 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 W-30 counters with higher top speed. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The Oldsmobile Cutlass lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds with the 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 W-30 reveals how Oldsmobile refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 270 hp, a 120-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile Cutlass uses a V8 OHV (Oldsmobile 455) displacing 7,456 cc, while the Oldsmobile Cutlass relies on a V8 OHV with 7,456 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 6.1 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.