USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1970
| Cutlass Hurst/Olds | Delta 88 Royale Rocket 455 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 390 hp | 365 hp |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft | 500 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 7,456 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 6.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.9 sec | 14.6 sec |
| Weight | 3,650 lbs | 4,101 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 3,099 mm |
| Length | 5,156 mm | 5,588 mm |
| Units Produced | 515 | 105,237 |
| Original MSRP | $4,025 | $3,253 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $42,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 4/10 |
On balance, the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. However, the 1970 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Rocket 455 counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds for outright capability, or the 1970 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Rocket 455 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Oldsmobile has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds with the 1970 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Rocket 455 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 365 hp, a 25-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 Delta 88 Royale relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 7,456 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 6.8 seconds. The Oldsmobile Cutlass carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 451 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 515 units built, the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds is considerably scarcer than the Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale's 105,237 examples. On the collector market, the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds commands a significant premium over the 1970 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Rocket 455, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.