1970 Oldsmobile 442

Description

Fast and sophisticated, this 1971 Oldsmobile 442 convertible isn't like most muscle cars. Yes, it does carry a thumping 455 cubic inch V8 and yes, it's dressed in some seriously aggressive bodywork, but the combination of the sleek silver paint and comfortable interior remind us that buying an Olds was an entirely different experience.

Platinum is this car's original color (code 14), but I'm guessing there's just no way it looked as good as the icy silver paint this 442 currently wears. In a sea of red and yellow and black muscle, this car stands out, looking both contemporary and brutal, it seems to ignore the usual standards and goes off on its own. Sure, it's got hood scoops and a pair of black stripes that highlight the hood, so you can bet that showing up in this car gets you a lot of attention. It's also a real-deal 442, so those badges were installed honestly and the aggressive look is factory-issue, particularly the stripes that highlight the fender arches. Finish quality is quite good for a big torque A-body, suggesting that it's never been raced or abused, which, honestly, wouldn't be fitting for an upscale Olds like this, right? Nice chrome sparkles against the silver paint, the exhaust uses proper trumpets poking out from the rear bumper, and it's really hard to not love this Olds.

The unusual code 977 Ivory interior was also fully restored to factory specs, and it's a very refreshing change from the expected black (it's also a lot cooler in the sun). Oldsmobile's added luxury is evident throughout, from the woodgrained door panels to the somewhat more expensive-feeling vinyl used on the bucket seats to the rather lengthy list of options. There's hardly any wear on any of the soft parts, so the car looks and feels quite fresh, and the gauges with their brushed stainless faces still look high-tech today. And yes, there's a tick-tock-tack over there on the right and it works properly. The original AM radio is still in the center of the dash so it looks right, but a Sony AM/FM/CD head unit hangs underneath to actually provide the entertainment. The white power convertible top is in good shape, stowing itself with the touch of a button, and a matching ivory boot makes it look sleek. There's also a good-sized trunk with plenty of space inside even with a full-sized spare stowed there.

It's powered by a correct 455 cubic inch V8, and while new rules and lower octane fuels knocked a few horsepower off the top, the mountainous torque it produces delivers the performance you'd expect. The engine bay is pretty correct and obviously shows signs that the swap was carefully and accurately restored some time ago, although it's no longer detailed for show. However, that ram air intake is still fully functional, as you can hear it snap open when you turn off the engine, and things like the alternator look recent. It barks to life with that distinctive Oldsmobile sound and eagerly pulls the slick ragtop around without ever seeming to work very hard. A heavy-duty TH400 3-speed automatic transmission has no problem keeping up and the original rear end still plants the power. Flowmaster mufflers have an awesome sound, reminding everyone that the 442 is no pushover in the performance department. Perennially attractive Oldsmobile Rally wheels are color-matched to the body and carry 225/70/14 BFGoodrich radials at all four corners.

The look, the colors, and the power all work together to make one of the most compelling muscle cars we've featured recently. The fact that it's also very affordable is merely icing on the cake. Call today!