USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1965
| 442 W-30 | 442 Hurst/Olds W-30 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 370 hp | 370 hp |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft | 500 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 7,456 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 sec | 5.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 135 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.7 sec | 13.7 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 5,105 mm | 5,156 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,100 | 4,576 |
| Original MSRP | — | $3,312 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $180,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 brings higher top speed to the table, and the 1965 Oldsmobile 442 Hurst/Olds W-30 answers with quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Oldsmobile 442. The 1970 and 1965 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 producing 370 hp and the 1965 Oldsmobile 442 Hurst/Olds W-30 delivering 370 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile 442 uses a V8 OHV displacing 7,456 cc, while the Oldsmobile 442 relies on a V8 OHV (Oldsmobile 455 W-30) with 7,456 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Oldsmobile 442 Hurst/Olds W-30 edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 5.7 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1965 Oldsmobile 442 Hurst/Olds W-30 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.