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1964–1972 Oldsmobile 442 W-30

The 4-4-2 (4-barrel carb, 4-speed manual, dual exhaust) was Oldsmobile's entry into the muscle car wars. The W-30 option added forced-air induction and special internals for serious performance.

1964–1972 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 — Full Specifications

  • Engine: 400ci / 455ci Rocket V8
  • Power: 325–370 bhp
  • Torque: 440–500 lb-ft
  • Transmission: Muncie M20/M21 4-speed manual or TH350/TH400 automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front engine, rear-wheel drive
  • Body style: 2-door holiday hardtop coupe, 2-door convertible, 2-door sport coupe
  • Wheelbase: 112 inches
  • Curb weight: 3,500–3,700 lbs
  • 0–60 mph: 5.7–7.5 sec
  • Quarter mile: 13.7–15.0 sec (W-30 ran 13.7 @ 103 mph in period tests)
  • Original MSRP: $2,604 (1964 option); $3,376 (1970 W-30)
  • Current value: $35,000–$60,000 (standard 442); $70,000–$130,000+ (W-30); $80,000–$200,000+ (Hurst/Olds)

Production Notes

The 1970 W-30 442 is widely considered the pinnacle. Hurst/Olds versions were assembled at the Hurst facility in Madison Heights, Michigan. The Rallye 350, offered only in 1970, came exclusively in Sebring Yellow.

Notable Factory Options

  • W-30 forced air induction
  • W-31 small-block option
  • Hurst/Olds package
  • Rally Pac instruments
  • Anti-spin diff
  • G80 Positraction

Buying Guide

The 442 is one of the most underappreciated muscle cars in the market, making it an excellent value proposition. Standard 442s with the 400ci engine are the most affordable GM big-block muscle cars and deliver excellent performance. W-30 cars are the collector's choice—verify the W-30 by checking for the red inner fenders (forced-air induction) and special engine components. The Hurst/Olds is a unique collaboration that commands strong premiums—1968 and 1969 models are the most desirable. 1970 is the best year for the 442 with the 455ci engine and refined styling. 1971–72 models are undervalued and offer a lot of car for the money. The W-31 (small-block performance package) is an interesting alternative that's very rare.

Pros

  • Significantly undervalued compared to GTO, Chevelle, and Mopar equivalents
  • Excellent build quality—Olds was GM's quality leader
  • 455ci torque is tremendous for street driving
  • Hurst/Olds models are unique and collectible
  • Shares GM A-body platform with excellent parts availability

Cons

  • Olds-specific engine parts are harder to source than Chevy
  • Less mainstream collector interest limits audience
  • Limited factory documentation compared to Pontiac (PHS) or Ford (Marti)
  • W-30 verification requires engine-specific knowledge
  • Brand was discontinued (2004), reducing ongoing manufacturer support

Restoration Tips

Olds-specific parts can be harder to find than GM A-body commons. Verify W-30 by checking for special heads, cam, and intake. Documentation through Oldsmobile records is limited compared to PHS for Pontiac.