There is something undeniably attractive about purchasing a restoration project with no urgent needs. It allows the owner to enjoy the car immediately while formulating their plan for its restoration. That is the opportunity provided by this 1968 Oldsmobile 442 Convertible. It runs and drives well, with the seller providing a few key parts to get the project rolling. They have listed the Olds here on eBay in Washington, Utah. Three bids have pushed the price beyond the reserve to $17,600, meaning it is days away from finding a new home.

The 1968 model year was a significant one for the 442. Not only did it mark the release of the Second Generation version, but the badge graduated from an options pack to a standalone model. This first-year example is the relatively rare Convertible variant that its original owner ordered in Ebony Black. It presents quite well for a survivor-grade vehicle, but with rust requiring attention, many will view restoration as the most appropriate path for this classic to follow. The problems aren’t severe, and while the frame sports surface corrosion, the underside is rock-solid and free from steel penetration. The exterior problems are isolated to the lower extremities which might respond positively to well-crafted patches. The power top operates as it should, although the top itself is beyond salvation. However, fear not, as the seller includes a replacement top, window, and pads for the buyer to install. The trim generally looks good for its age, and there are no visible glass problems.

This Olds proves how easy it is to order a paint and trim combination that possesses the “wow” factor. The first owner chose White vinyl for the interior, providing a striking contrast that will turn heads. The overall condition is pretty impressive, with no evidence of significant wear, stains, deterioration, or abuse. The armrests and rear trims have begun to develop a yellow tinge, although there are now excellent cleaning products designed to address those problems without the need for an owner to source replacement pieces. The carpet is in good order, and there are no cracks on the dash or pad. It isn’t loaded with options like air conditioning or power windows, but the factory AM radio will relieve boredom on long journeys.

Lifting the hood demonstrates why this 442 can be considered a genuine muscle car. Its engine bay houses a 400ci V8 that sends 325hp and 440 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission. The vehicle’s luxury leanings are reinforced by power steering and power brakes. This drop-top will tip the scales at 3,783 lbs, but will still dispatch the ¼-mile in 15 seconds. The first piece of positive news for purists is that this classic is numbers-matching, which will maximize its potential future investment potential. It sits on new tires and drives perfectly. The seller describes the engine as strong, with no smoke or odd noises. That makes it a turnkey proposition that will provide the winning bidder with immediate motoring fun.

Rarity doesn’t always equate to a potentially high value, but with only 5,142 examples of the Oldsmobile 442 Convertible rolling off the line in 1968, these cars are typically keenly sought by enthusiasts. Therefore, the lack of action on this car is quite surprising. The absence of significant rust makes it a prime candidate for restoration. Doing so should be worth the cost and effort if the bidding stays close to its current level. A high-end result could yield a value above $40,000, while perfection could push that figure significantly higher. Of course, the financial viability will depend on the price when the hammer falls, but if one of these classics is on your Wish List, monitoring this auction could be worthwhile.