Oldsmobile Toronado

vs

Oldsmobile 442

USA vs USA — 1966 vs 1970

Oldsmobile Toronado (1966)
Oldsmobile 442 (1970)
Specifications
Toronado442 W-30
Horsepower385 hp370 hp
Torque470 lb-ft500 lb-ft
Engine Size7,456 cc7,456 cc
0-60 mph7.5 sec5.7 sec
Top Speed135 mph135 mph
¼ Mile15.5 sec13.7 sec
Wheelbase3,048 mm2,845 mm
Length5,410 mm5,105 mm
Units Produced40,9633,100
Value (Excellent)$65,000$150,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity4/107/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado excels in better value, while the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 stands out for quicker acceleration, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

The 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado and 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 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. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado producing 385 hp and the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 delivering 370 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile Toronado uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,456 cc, while the Oldsmobile 442 relies on a V8 OHV with 7,456 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3,100 units built, the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 is considerably scarcer than the Oldsmobile Toronado's 40,963 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 commands a significant premium over the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.