Oldsmobile Cutlass

vs

Oldsmobile Rocket 88

USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1949

Oldsmobile Cutlass (1968)
Oldsmobile Rocket 88 (1949)
Specifications
Cutlass Hurst/OldsRocket 88 Club Coupe
Horsepower390 hp135 hp
Torque500 lb-ft265 lb-ft
Engine Size7,456 cc5,310 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec13.0 sec
Top Speed125 mph100 mph
¼ Mile13.9 sec18.5 sec
Weight3,650 lbs3,550 lbs
Wheelbase2,845 mm3,048 mm
Length5,156 mm5,110 mm
Units Produced515303,695
Original MSRP$4,025$2,150
Value (Excellent)$200,000$95,000
Collectibility9/108/10
Rarity8/105/10
The Verdict

The 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. That said, the 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88 Club Coupe brings better value and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Oldsmobile heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.

Overview

The 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds and 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88 Club Coupe 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 Cutlass Hurst/Olds holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 135 hp, a 255-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 Rocket 88 relies on a V8 OHV with 5,310 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 13.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 515 units built, the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds is considerably scarcer than the Oldsmobile Rocket 88's 303,695 examples. On the collector market, the 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds commands a significant premium over the 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88 Club Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.