USA vs USA — 1964 vs 1968
| 442 W-30 | 442 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 | 130 mph | 123 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.7 sec | 13.7 sec |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 5,156 mm | 5,207 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,576 | 1,915 |
| Original MSRP | $3,312 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $180,000 | $180,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1964 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 excels in higher top speed, stronger collectibility, better value, while the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 stands out for quicker acceleration, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Tracing the evolution of the Oldsmobile 442 from 1964 to 1968 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Oldsmobile. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1964 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 producing 370 hp and the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 delivering 370 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Oldsmobile 442 uses a V8 OHV (Oldsmobile 455) displacing 7,456 cc, while the Oldsmobile 442 relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 7,456 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 5.7 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1964 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.