Real Deal 442, Numbers Matching 455 V8, Auto, A/C, Factory Correct Colors, Nice!

1971 Oldsmobile 442 -- Additional Info:

Fast and sophisticated, this 1971 Oldsmobile 442 isn't like most muscle cars. Yes, it does carry its original legendary 455 cubic inch V8 and yes, it's dressed in some aggressively designed bodywork, but the combination of the dark green paint, white vinyl top, and comfortable interior remind us that buying an Olds was an entirely different experience.


Born with handsome code 49 Antique Green, this slick Cutty was given a correct respray not long ago that still look great, especially when contrasted against the white vinyl top and white 442 stripe kit. 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 cool hood louvers and a wing on the deck lid, plus that white stripe that splits the hood and matches the stripes that adorn the profile, but showing up in this car gets a lot of attention. It's also a real-deal 442 (code 44 in the VIN), so those badges were installed honestly and the aggressive look is factory-issue. Nice chrome sparkles against the dark green paint, wheel arch trim highlight the flared fenders, and the beautiful white vinyl top provides a great contrast to break up the green paint a bit, while also adding a touch of sophistication to this street brawler. This Cutty is every bit of a gentleman's muscle car.


The Jade green interior is also full factory spec, including the handsome and comfortable front bucket seats that are split with a cool console, a set-up that is basically a must-have if you're looking for a 442. Oldsmobile's added luxury is evident throughout, from the woodgrain on the door panels, console, and dash, to the somewhat more expensive-feeling vinyl used on the seats, to the comfortable list of options. There's hardly any wear on any of the soft parts, so the car looks and feels quite fresh, and the headliner and plush carpet match nicely, giving the 442 a warm, welcoming feeling from top to bottom. Included among this car's features is factory air-conditioning that's been upgraded to use R134a refrigerant, which is always a great sight inside a dark car. The original AM/FM radio is remarkably still in the dash, and even though it's due for an upgrade, we'd sincerely hop that the next owner would discreetly stash it in the glove compartment rather than cutting into that awesome original dash. And despite the fastback profile, there's a good-sized trunk with plenty of space inside even with a full-sized spare stowed there, too.


Powering this cool Cutty is it's original numbers matching 455 cubic inch V8, and while new rules and lower octane fuels knocked a few horsepower off the top in the early '70s, the mountainous torque this big block produces delivers the performance you expect out of a 442. The engine bay is clean and obviously shows signs that it was carefully and accurately restored and maintained through the years, with bright corporate blue engine enamel, a correct 442 decal on the dual-snorkel air cleaner, and all original equipment everywhere you look inside the engine bay. It barks to life with that distinctive Oldsmobile sound and eagerly pulls the slick coupe 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, so this Olds can both shake some egos at red lights or cruise down the highway at higher speeds. The chassis isn't detailed for show, but it's very solid and hides nothing, ready for another round of cruising the streets with the help of power steering and power front disc brakes. Perennially attractive Oldsmobile Rally wheels are color-matched to the body and carry 225/70/14 white-letter radials at all four corners.


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