Vehicle Description
If you like your muscle cars a little more grown up than the usual
Chevelles and winged GTOs, then you've probably already considered
an Oldsmobile. Cars like this 1965 Cutlass 4-4-2 Convertible offer
the same big engine thrills as those other models but with more
polish and sophistication. This particular beauty also packs a
gorgeous red-on-white color combination, a strong-running 400 cubic
inch V8, a quick-shifting 4-speed manual and a killer droptop look
that will set it apart everywhere it goes.
For an adult's car, this 4-4-2 hardtop (hyphens were used until
1968 when the car became its own model, not just an option like
these early cars) has a vibrantly elegant look and that hot red
paint is a big part of it. Upgraded from a rather drab factory
Saffron Yellow, the car was restored around 7 years ago to a top
driver-quality standard that still look great today. It's
beautifully done and the color will elicit questions at fueling
stops about exactly what shade of red it might be, as onlookers
seem to be taken with the big, bold convertible. Crisp body lines
are a highlight of the 2nd generation Cutlass, and the sharp crease
running along the tops of the fenders make a subtle yet effect
styling statement. Finish quality is very good, with a lustrous
paint job that shines up beautifully and looks deep enough to swim
in, but not so perfect that you'll be afraid to drive it.
Oldsmobile designers weren't afraid to use chrome, even on their
top performance car, so the bumpers, the 'dumbbell' grille, and
copious side trim are all bright metal that sparkles against the
darker red paint. Although only an original build sheet will 100%
verify the 4-4-2 trim package in these years, this is a '4HVC'
stamped car from the Lansing plant that proves the W-29 option (4V
is a must-have for any 4-4-2 from LAN), along with additional top
door sill and thin body chrome (HVC), proving its authenticity to
us and to pretty much all Olds connoisseurs in the world. Correct
442 badges are found in the blacked-out grille, on the quarter
panels, and on the deck lid, subtle reminders that this is not your
grandfather's Oldsmobile.
The white interior is the jewel in this car's crown, a beautifully
finished driver's compartment that shows you why you should own an
Oldsmobile instead of a Chevy. Rich materials and beautiful
patterns make it look far more luxurious and expensive than its
price would suggest and has been very well-kept, so it's in great
condition. The seats and door panels are soft pleated vinyl and the
black carpets are new, and with some bright metal and chrome
highlights on the black dash and wood-rimmed steering wheel,
there's a great contrast that looks fantastic. The factory gauges
ahead of the driver cover the engine's vitals, but a rare
factory-optioned tachometer inside the center console minds the
revs, and it looks super-cool just ahead of the tall Hurst shifter.
Options are plentiful including power windows, a tilt wheel, the
original AM radio, a power convertible top that works great, and
factory A/C that's blowing hard and cold thanks to a modern
equipment and an upgrade to R134a refrigerant. 4-4-2 floor mats
protect the fresh black carpets below, and the white convertible
top stows neatly behind the matching white boot. The rear seat
barely looks used, and out back the spacious trunk houses what
could very well be original bias-ply spare and factory plaid
mats.
Most muscle car enthusiasts agree that the original '4-4-2' name
derives from the car being equipped with a 4-barrel carb, a 4-speed
transmission, and a dual exhaust. And even though these three
components were not necessarily prerequisites for a real 4-4-2
(plenty 4-4-2's have varying transmissions, and some people even
argue exactly what the numbers denote), this one happens to hit all
the marks with a 400 V8 motor, a quick-shifting 4-speed manual, and
a throaty stainless-steel true dual exhaust with chambered
mufflers. With plenty of torque and good horsepower, moving the big
coupe is effortless, and rather than pinning you back with
explosive acceleration, this one moves like an electric locomotive
with a feeling of inevitability about it. It's wonderfully detailed
with Oldsmobile Gold paint on the block and valve covers, and a
factory chrome air cleaner with correct decals brightens things up.
An original-style 4-barrel carburetor and stock intake enhance
power and reliability, it's an easy drivetrain to maintain and with
continued proper maintenance it'll drive anywhere, anytime. The
underside is very solid, further proof of a long life spent living
easy, and the smooth-shifting 4-speed spins the original 10-bolt
rear end with ease. An updated dual exhaust system gives the big
Olds a distinctive voice and there's a newer gas tank hanging out
back as well. Power steering and power front disc brakes are a
welcome sight on a convertible this big, and with beefy springs,
shocks, and a tough rear swaybar, it handles like a dream. Classic
Cragar S/S chrome wheels look right on just about anything of the
period, including here, and they wear fresh redline radials for a
performance look.
We like this car a lot. It's attention-getting without being too
flashy and it backs it up with solid performance. Offered with its
original warranty card and original owner's manuals, this 4-4-2 is
ready to dominate for years to come. Call today!