Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser

vs

Oldsmobile Delta 88

USA vs USA — 1966 vs 1968

Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (1966)
Oldsmobile Delta 88 (1968)
Specifications
Vista Cruiser 442 W-30Delta 88 Royale Convertible
Horsepower365 hp365 hp
Torque480 lb-ft480 lb-ft
Engine Size7,456 cc7,456 cc
0-60 mph6.8 sec7.5 sec
Top Speed120 mph125 mph
¼ Mile14.5 sec15.5 sec
Weight4,200 lbs
Wheelbase2,997 mm3,099 mm
Length5,283 mm5,588 mm
Units Produced13,600
Original MSRP$3,708
Value (Excellent)$120,000$55,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity5/106/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible with higher top speed, stronger collectibility, better value. The 1966 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser 442 W-30 offers quicker acceleration, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Oldsmobile has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1966 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser 442 W-30 with the 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1966 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser 442 W-30 producing 365 hp and the 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible delivering 365 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser uses a V8 OHV displacing 7,456 cc, while the Oldsmobile Delta 88 relies on a V8 OHV (Rocket) with 7,456 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser 442 W-30 edges ahead at 6.8 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1966 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser 442 W-30 commands a significant premium over the 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.