Classic Luxury Cruiser: 1977 Oldsmobile Toronado

One noteworthy highlight in the Oldsmobile lineup for ’77 was the Toronado, since it didn’t undergo significant downsizing like many others, though it too would receive a chop for the third generation in 1979.  Unless you count the XSR prototype, the most special Toronado in 1977 was the introduction of the XS model, which featured a wraparound rear window that stretched between both B-pillars.  However, the lesser offerings also still looked good and satisfied most buyers seeking a personal luxury coupe from this era.  This 1977 Oldsmobile Toronado Brougham here on Facebook Marketplace seems solid and well-preserved overall, and the seller is only the second owner, so it has a traceable history since new.  It’s priced at $8,000 and located in Newman, Georgia, with our thanks going to Barn Finds reader Jack M. for spotting this Olds and sending in the tip!

Though it had nothing to do with the car’s size or weight, the Toronado did shrink in one area in ’77, and that was under the hood.  Gone was the massive 455 cubic-inch V8 that powered the car the year before, and the 403 became the only engine choice.  The seller mentions it’s the same Olds engine shared with the Pontiac Trans Am, and while Poncho purists generally prefer those equipped with the 400 T/A 6.6, it’ll be a good story for the next owner to share with friends at car gatherings.  This Tornado has covered just 74,000 miles over the last nearly 50 years, so if it’s been properly maintained, it may still have several years of dependable life left.

The original owner apparently stored this Oldsmobile in a plane hangar, which helped preserve the body’s integrity, since there doesn’t appear to be any obvious rust or corrosion anywhere.  The panels also appear straight, but the finish has seen better days, so spraying on a fresh coat of paint would greatly improve the exterior’s appearance.  Although the whitewalls and standard Olds wheel covers are absolutely correct for the period, I’m thinking some fancier wheels and black tires might be a fun addition here, but certainly not a necessity.

The seats are plush and in good condition, and I sorely miss that most automobiles billed as luxurious lack this sort of environment today.  Noted accessories include power windows, seats, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM/8-Track stereo system.  Thankfully, the owner also remembered to take a photo of the underside, which still looks strong, like I’d expect from an automobile that’s been in Georgia its entire life.  Those Summit mufflers and rear tailpipes are new, and this 1977 Oldsmobile Toronado Brougham seems like it’s ready for the next owner to get behind the wheel.  What are your thoughts on this one, and how quickly would you address the paint issues?