As the 1960's came to an end the Muscle car craze came to an end with it because of emissions and hi insurance rates on big horsepower big block cars. At the same time the American public still wanted Muscle cars and Oldsmobile heard them. Even if the cubic inches were no longer there, buyers still had a strong desire for that classic “muscle car look.” Thus, the popularity of “junior” muscle cars with high-performance small-block V8 engines gained traction. The result was the Rallye 350. Available only in Sebring Yellow, its striking appearance was highlighted by color-matched bumpers and wheels that gave the Rallye 350 a look unlike any other muscle car on the street.
In an era when chrome was still cool, Oldsmobile’s monochromatic color scheme was certainly daring and influential on the future styling of performance cars. Instead of adhering to Oldsmobile’s traditional touch of class, the Rallye 350 was bold and muscular.
A unique deck lid spoiler and a fiberglass W-25 cowl induction hood definitely signaled this was no ordinary Olds. But the Rallye 350 was much more than an appearance package: The sole powertrain option was a bulletproof 350 cubic inch V8 engine with an impressive 310 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. Perhaps Oldsmobile was right — no big block was needed after all. With just the little 350 at the helm, this junior Olds could sprint to 60 in seven seconds flat and complete the quarter mile in 15.27 seconds at just over 94 miles per hour. The Rallye 350 also came with Oldsmobile’s FE2 “Rallye Sport Suspension,” which included stiffer springs and larger front and rear sway bars. Compared to the 442 anchored by its much heavier 455 big-block V8, the Rallye 350 felt like a slot car. In the end only 3500 Rallye 350's were built, and built in 1970 only. The Rallye 350 proved that the Muscle car could survive without big block engines, but sales were not as strong as Oldsmobile hoped. The Ralley 350 was a car that was simply ahead of its time.
This particular Rallye 350 is an excellent original example that has been maintained well over the years. It has been painted and presents very well. The upholstery is original and in great condition. The undercarriage is very original as well with no signs of every having been neglected or in poor condition. Mechanically the car runs and drives as it should and is ready to be driven, shown and enjoyed.
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