USA vs USA — 1966 vs 1979
| Toronado 455 | Hurst/Olds | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 400 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft | 290 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 5,735 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 135 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 4,600 lbs | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 2,794 mm |
| Length | 5,365 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 40,963 | 2,499 |
| Original MSRP | $4,617 | $10,295 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado 455 excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado 455 and 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds share a manufacturer in Oldsmobile, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Oldsmobile brand. The 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado 455 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 400 hp compared to 170 hp, a 230-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile Toronado uses a V8 OHV (Oldsmobile 455 Rocket) displacing 7,456 cc, while the Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds relies on a V8 OHV with 5,735 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado 455 edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 9.8 seconds. The Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1000 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,499 units built, the 1979 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds is considerably scarcer than the Oldsmobile Toronado's 40,963 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.