The Oldsmobile Omega was one of the last GM cars to join the badged-engineered Chevrolet Nova bandwagon. It arrived in 1973, two years after the Buick Apollo, and followed the Ventura II at Pontiac. The cars received their last redesign in 1975, including the Omega, and they all wrapped up in 1979 in advance of switching to front-wheel-drive in 1980. The seller’s ’77 Omega is a solid runner, but it has a less-than-perfect repaint. Located near Newport News, Virginia, this “not-your-father’s Oldsmobile” is available here on craigslist for $8,200.
Both the Omega and Apollo had better trim levels than the Nova and Ventura, as befitting their stature in the GM hierarchy. At the base level, the 1977 Omega used a 231 cubic inch V6 borrowed from Buick. That’s what sits under the hood of the seller’s car, and it may have only 36,000 miles. An automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes are standard. The vehicle originated in California and eventually found its way to Virginia.
While the seller says this Olds is in excellent condition, that may refer to its rust-free body and mechanical health. Yet the paint is in poor shape because a repaint didn’t work out. The seller has a video of the car up on a lift, but you’ll have to ask to see it. The interior is original and okay, but it could use a bit of detailing.
This is a second-owner car with aftermarket wheels (factory wheel covers are in the trunk). It’s probably fine as-is, but you could either restore it or go the “hot rod” route, as the seller suggests. If you’re a Nova fan, then the Omega is a lesser-seen alternative, whether in the 1970s or today. Another tip from Tony Primo!
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