Twilight Saga: 1972 Oldsmobile 4-4-2
Nineteen seventy-two It's been a tough year for performance enthusiasts as the government mandates that all cars must run on low-lead or unleaded fuel. This emissions move required a reduction in compression ratio, which typically topped out at 8.5:1 in 1972 engines. Oldsmobile's horsepower loss wasn't that severe because GM lowered the compression ratio in 1971. Far-reaching, however, was the return of the 4-4-2 to a package and the inclusion of the 350 two-cylinder as standard engine. Considering the 4-4-2 had at least 345 horsepower since 1965, the low-performance 350 simply fell out of favor. Oldsmobile's product planners are clearly interested in catering to people who want image without the insurance penalties, but it's frustrating. Luckily, Oldsmobile still has them in stock. Upgraded version of the 350 quad-barreled gun - not quite as fast, but more than enough for many. Next up is the 455 four-barrel rated at 250 net horsepower with an automatic transmission; opt for the stick and…