My grandfather bought a new Cutlass Supreme in 1973. His Oldsmobile was brown inside and out, a four-door sedan, and it served him well as his daily driver until he gave up driving in his eighties. I remember one time another driver T-boned his Cutlass on the driver’s side, and as my grandfather didn’t wear a seatbelt, he basically slid across the bench seat during the impact and came out unscathed. When my grandfather eventually stopped driving, he gave me the Cutlass, and it served me well as my daily transportation to college. The 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme has the same body style as my grandfather’s 1973, but this example, located in Ontario, Canada, is much sportier and available for auction here on Hemmings with zero bids and three days left. Special thanks to PRA4SNW for the tip!
The seller’s 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Colonnade Coupe is finished in Sage Green with a white contrasting landau roof. The photos show the original factory paint has dulled over the years, with fading, chips, and a spot of surface rust behind the rear window. The Landau roof also looks aged, showing signs of deterioration and bubbling beneath the cover. According to the seller, the Cutlass has no history of accidents or body damage, and the body panels do look straight. The chassis and frame were originally coated with epoxy to help preserve and protect it.
Inside, the Cutlass Supreme’s upscale original interior includes white vinyl Strato-Bucket seats, a center console, AM radio, and factory air conditioning. The car also has power steering and power brakes with front discs. No cracks or chips are reported in the windshield or other glass. The vinyl upholstery shows wear, especially on the driver’s bucket seat. The seller notes that the A/C is currently working.
In 1974, the Cutlass offered only two engine choices: the standard 350 cu-in Rocket V8 with a four-barrel carburetor, producing 180 hp, and the optional 455 cu-in Rocket V8 with 280 hp. The original owner of this 1974 Cutlass chose the former mated with the three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmission. The seller notes he is the second owner and that the Cutlass, with 27,672 original miles, has been carefully maintained. The seller reported that transmission fluid had been seeping slightly from the front pump seal.
For such a solid classic car, it may seem unusual that no one has yet placed the opening $4,000 bid. However, the Cutlass’ location in Canada probably has a lot to do with that, given concerns about shipping costs. The owner admits they are not entirely sure of the process for bringing the Cutlass across the border, but Hemmings may have information on it. Have any of you readers ever bought a car from Canada? And what are your thoughts on this 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme?
owned a few of these in 442 garb…1 350 car and 1 455 car.