1965 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 Convertible

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!