1969 Oldsmobile 442 Hurst/Olds Tribute in Lithia Springs, Georgia

If you like your muscle cars a little more grown up than the usual Chevelles and winged GTOs, then you've probably already considered Oldsmobile. Cars like this 1969 Cutlass 442 Hurst/Olds tribute offer the same big engine thrills as those other models but with more polish and sophistication, not to mention the high-impact Hurst look. This one also packs a super nasty 400 cubic inch V8, race-grade suspension, and a look that will set it apart everywhere it goes.

For an adult's car, this 442 hardtop has a distinctive look that's all about performance. Yes, it's a real 442, now upgraded to Hurst/Olds specs and we love the look. It's beautifully done and there's just no mistaking the white and gold bodywork or those super aggressive hood scoops. Crisp body lines are a highlight of the 1969 Cutlass, and the sharp crease running along the tops of the fenders make a subtle yet effect styling statement, something that was highlighted by the gold Hurst stripes. Finish quality is very good, with a slick finish that shines up beautifully and looks deep enough to swim in, but not so perfect that you'll be afraid to drive it, and yes, the stripes were painted on. Oldsmobile designers weren't afraid to use chrome, even on their top performance model, so the bumpers, the grille surround, and side trim are all bright metal that sparkles against the bright white paint. Correct badges have been installed in all the right places and the wing on the trunk is a not-so-subtle reminder that this is not your grandfather's Oldsmobile.

The black interior is a nicely finished driver's compartment that shows you why you should own an Oldsmobile instead of a Chevy. Upscale materials and stylish patterns make it look far more luxurious and expensive than its price would suggest, and most of the stuff was new a few years ago so it's still in good order. The factory gauges are fully operational except for the fuel gauge, which has been replaced by an aftermarket unit under the dash. The 4-speed manual gearbox uses a Hurst shifter (of course) and you wouldn't want to own a muscle car without a cue ball knob, right? Things like the armrests on the door panels and the center console show some age, but everything else is quite nice, so get in and have fun. It also includes a factory AM radio that's due for a replacement, as well as a neatly finished trunk that carries a big fuel cell.

The first "4" in 442 stood for the 400 cubic inch V8 under the hood, and that's what's in the car today, 455 emblems on the hood notwithstanding. With huge torque, moving the big coupe is effortless, and it'll pin you to the seat at almost any speed thanks to the giant meats out back. It's wonderfully detailed with Oldsmobile Gold paint on the block, aluminum valve covers, and an Edelbrock intake manifold to brighten things up, and there's a big cam inside. A trick FAST fuel injection system enhances power and reliability, and it's just effortless to drive. A big aluminum radiator with electric fans, serpentine belt system for the accessories, and an electronic ignition also help with the modern feel. Long-tube headers feed a custom Flowmaster exhaust system, and looking underneath, you can easily see why it needs that fuel cell: a narrowed 12-bolt rear end on a 4-link suspension with coil-overs. There's awesome attention to detail everywhere you look, even though this sucker was clearly built for combat. Classic Olds Rally I wheels are painted to match the Hurst stripes and carry a set of big (very big!) and little Mickey Thompson tires.

We like this car a lot. It's attention-getting without being too flashy and it backs it up with incredible performance. There's a lot invested here but the price could be considered a bargain. Call today!