Like the rest of General Motors’ mid-size cars, the Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme was downsized in 1978 for better fuel economy. But a convertible had not been in the Cutlass family since 1972. This 1978 edition looks like a DIY conversion that needs further work, both cosmetically and mechanically. Also, it has a 454 cubic inch V8, perhaps from a Chevy. Located in Ardmore, Alabama, this unfinished one-of-a-kind is available here on Facebook Marketplace for $4,500. Another tip brought our way via Barn Finder “PRA4SNW”.
Like the full-size Oldsmobiles that had gone on a diet in 1977, the 1978 Olds Cutlass was smaller and lighter (by hundreds of pounds). So, there was no longer a need for a big-block engine to get the job done. This Cutlass may have had a 350 CI “Rocket” V8 under the hood before the 454 was located and shoehorned in. The air conditioner compressor no longer allows the hood to be closed, so it will need to be removed or have a cowl hood installed.
We don’t know the history of this project or why the decision was made to cut off the roof. We hope the proper bracing was installed, as convertibles are generally less sturdy. We’re told the Olds has an automatic transmission, but it is the larger TH-400 that would have been paired with a 454 big block. The car needs a fuel pump, but the Cutlass will run if you hook up a can of gasoline directly to the carburetor.
This conversion has no top, and perhaps there were no plans for one. Components inside the interior have been swapped out, and we don’t know if there’s a back seat now because there’s a red cover over that spot. The seller believes this is a good project for someone to finish, but there are probably more questions than answers.
Chop shop 🪚 Cutlass.
Worth what you could get for the engine on the secondary market.
I thought convertibles had functioning tops. Generally cutting the roof off a car makes it a disposable fair weather play thing.
StevevR