Vehicle Description
This Oldsmobile 442 isn't just a fine example of its era, fresh
from a complete restoration, it's also a rolling marker of a
pivotal time in the brand's history. Prior to its arrival, the 442
wasn't even a model per se, but rather only an option package made
available on the very popular Cutlass - a package deriving its name
from the included four-barrel carb, 4 speed transmission and dual
exhausts. But when this '68 rolled off the assembly line, it
represented something very different - a muscle car with an
identity very much all its own.
This 442 sports its factory correct color of Ocean Turquoise,
accented with vertical stripes running down both of its front
fenders also serving to highlight its "442" badges in the process.
Though correct for the car, it's not commonly seen which makes it
very eye-catching as it is. You can easily see how, with its looks
combined with serious power, this model made an immediate impact
when it hit the market. A number of its styling cues illustrate how
intent Olds was on making the 442 stand out from its competition:
the long expanse of chrome running from the front of the car back
along the top of the fender and doors before merging with the
window trim, that subtly louvered hood and the pair of twin
wide-set headlights in front are a few examples. It's a stylish
example of its era, with more curvature and a broader, more
muscular look than its predecessors - a look amplified by its clear
glass and well fitted body panels throughout. Still retaining a
stock stance, it has a relatively low center of gravity that
confers a sense of agility.
The all black interior is understated but plenty stylish. The job
was done seamlessly and the buckets are looking particularly fresh
and the shifter rising up out of the floor is sure to provide hours
and hours of fun. Looking around the rest of the interior it's
evident it hasn't seen a lot of passenger traffic. The original
Oldsmobile steering wheel is mounted on the factory tilt column and
the factory gauges are in place with nice clear lenses, along with
a trio of aftermarket gauges mounted under the dash in the usual
location. In back, a full-sized spare sits in the spacious trunk
area. There is all kinds of luggage capacity in this muscle car,
proclaiming passengers are welcome to join you on future asphalt
adventures.
Outfitted with a 455 cubic inch big block V8 and a 4 speed manual
transmission, this car promises to be a blast to drive. An
Edelbrock Torker intake, crowned by a chrome air cleaner and Holley
4 barrell carburetor has been added to take things up a notch in
the performance department. This is a well-detailed engine
compartment, with fresh-looking hoses and no errant wiring to be
seen. With its factory power steering, maneuvering in city
conditions becomes a lot more palatable. Take a look underneath and
you'll see an unusually clean undercarriage: nice, straight, smooth
frame rails and floor pans and a rear housing, exhaust system and
suspension showing a dry look free of spills and road grime. In the
back, a sway bar has been added to help keep things level while
cornering. Featuring power brakes on all four corners with upgraded
4-piston discs up front, this 442 sits on a set of stock Oldsmobile
rims whose interiors surrounding the hubcaps have been painted the
same turquoise blue as the exterior - definitely a cool look for a
vintage car like this.
Looking for a well-equipped Oldsmobile powerhouse that also has the
distinction of heralding its own chapter in muscle car history?
This 442 is the one for you. Call today!