After a four-year absence in the Oldsmobile lineup, the 442 name was revived in 1985, following the recent demise of the Hurst/Olds. It was based on the Cutlass Calais in 1985 and 1986, but switched to the Cutlass Supreme for ’87, which cut costs a bit, as this was a slightly less-expensive model. Although performance was nowhere near the standards of the early 4-4-2 cars, the fifth-generation examples excelled in appearance, offering additional graphics on the already beautiful G-Body. This 1987 Oldsmobile 442 here on eBay is such a pristine survivor that it has won several awards, but the owner has decided the time has arrived to let someone else become its caretaker. This sporty Olds is in Toms River, New Jersey, with the current bid of $10,000 understandably short of the reserve.
It’s never a bad idea to consider purchasing a vehicle from someone who loves the brand, and this 442 is said to belong to an owner who happens to collect Oldsmobiles, and is reported to have some 30 Olds autos in their fleet, This one is said to remain all original, and it’s received several awards, including First Place and Best Of Class from the National Antique Oldsmobile Club and the Oldsmobile Club of America. The seller describes it as totally stunning, and I’m certainly not spotting anything outside that would lead me to think otherwise.
Looking inside, things appear equally as fresh, with all of the components looking as they would have when this one was born nearly four decades ago. The mileage is listed at 29,483, and from the condition in here, I’m pretty sure that’s actual. This one also features some desirable accessories, such as power windows, seats, and door locks, with all of the options stated to be working. It’s great to see that the factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo system is still in the dash, as many of these were later replaced with aftermarket units.
The only engine available here was a 307, but it’s a bit heftier than the one found in the regular Cutlass Supreme. While it only received a factory horsepower rating of 180, the V8 felt more powerful at lower speeds thanks to the heavy-duty 8.5-inch limited-slip rear end, which included 3.73:1 gears. With its low mileage, this 1987 Oldsmobile 442 likely still has a lot of good life remaining for the next owner to enjoy, and I’m speculating that the price will keep climbing over the next few days. Is this later 4-4-2 offering one you’d be interested in competing for?
These are nice cruisers!! Needs a little more go power though!!