USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1979
| Delta 88 Royale Convertible | Hurst/Olds | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 365 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 480 lb-ft | 290 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 5,735 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 4,200 lbs | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,099 mm | 2,794 mm |
| Length | 5,588 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 13,600 | 2,499 |
| Original MSRP | $3,708 | $10,295 |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible 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 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible 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 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible holds a clear advantage in raw power with 365 hp compared to 170 hp, a 195-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile Delta 88 uses a V8 OHV (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 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 9.8 seconds. The Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 600 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 Delta 88's 13,600 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.