Oldsmobile 442
The ultimate 'Dr. Oldsmobile' creation with 500 lb-ft of pavement-shredding torque.
- Power
- 370 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.7 s
- Top speed
- 116 mph
- Est. value
- $85k–$275k
About the Oldsmobile 442
The 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 represents the pinnacle of the brand's muscle car era, benefiting from GM lifting its 400-cubic-inch displacement cap. At its heart is the 'Rocket' 455 V8, blueprinted at the factory and equipped with a high-lift camshaft, aluminum intake manifold, and a distinctive fiberglass ram-air hood. While rivals focused on peak horsepower, the W-30 was famous for its massive 500 lb-ft of torque, providing immediate, effortless acceleration. It remains one of the most balanced muscle cars of the period, blending Oldsmobile's traditional luxury with genuine drag-strip performance.
Oldsmobile 442 specs
The Oldsmobile 442 produces 370 bhp (276 kW) and 678 Nm (500 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 116 mph (187 km/h).
| Make | Oldsmobile |
|---|---|
| Model | 442 |
| Trim | W-30 |
| Years | 1970 |
| Type | Muscle |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 3,100 built |
| Original price | About $4,000 when new |
| Engine | 7.5-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 7,456 cc (7.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 370 bhp (276 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 678 Nm (500 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.7 s |
| Top speed | 116 mph (187 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,703 kg (3,754 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 217 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Oldsmobile 442 worth?
A typical Oldsmobile 442 is estimated to be worth $85,000 – $275,000 (about £63,000 – £205,000).
Its original price when new was about $4,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Oldsmobile 442 rarity in CarSpot
The Oldsmobile 442 is a Legendary card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 85 out of 100. Flagship models and limited runs, typically worth £250,000 or more. A Legendary card is worth 160 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Oldsmobile 442 fun facts
- The W-30 engine parts were 'Select Fit' at the factory, meaning they were hand-picked for the best tolerances, effectively making it a factory-blueprinted engine.
- To save weight, Oldsmobile used a special red plastic for the inner front fender wells, which has become a key identifier for authentic W-30 cars today.
- The 1970 model year was the only time the 442 W-30 was rated at a full 500 lb-ft of torque before compression ratios were lowered for 1971.
