Factory 455: 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme

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You don’t have to look long or hard to realize that the first owner wasn’t afraid to splash their cash when ordering this 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. The range-topping V8 is the most obvious sign, while the interior is well-equipped by the standards of the day. It presents extremely well and is a turnkey proposition for its new owner. The seller has listed the Olds here on Facebook Marketplace in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. You could drive it home by handing the seller $21,995, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this stunning survivor.

The Fourth Generation Cutlass range was new for the 1973 model year, featuring styling that was very different from its predecessor. Our feature Cutlass Supreme is a first-year example that presents exceptionally well in Cranberry Red with a matching vinyl top. The seller believes that the paint is original, with no evidence of repairs or restoration. There are no significant imperfections, with the prone nose particularly noteworthy due to its lack of chips and marks. It isn’t perfect, but the overall condition is comfortably acceptable for a survivor-grade classic. The panels are straight, and there appear to be no rust issues to sour the ownership experience. The lack of paint issues and the flawless vinyl suggest that its owners have protected it from harmful UV rays. The trim and glass are excellent for their age, and the Super Stock III wheels add a classy and muscular touch to the exterior.

Lifting the hood reveals the first sign that this classic’s first owner wasn’t afraid to splash their cash on their new toy. They selected the range-topping L75 version of the 455ci V8, teamed with a three-speed Turbo 400 transmission and a Posi rear end. Emission regulations had tightened by the time this car rolled off the line, but its V8 still delivered 250hp and 370 ft/lbs of torque. Most buyers were less concerned about outright acceleration, focusing on an effortless motoring experience. However, this car’s ability to deliver a ¼-mile ET of 15.9 seconds still looks pretty respectable. The seller claims that the Cutlass has a genuine 97,000 miles on the clock without mentioning verifying evidence. They recently treated it to a new dual exhaust that makes the 455 sound really sweet. It has undergone a service and is a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

Air conditioning, power locks, cruise control, bucket seats, a console, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio/8-track player. Those desirable options define this classic’s interior, ensuring that every journey is a special occasion. The Deep Red interior trim perfectly compliments the exterior paint shade, and the lack of physical damage demonstrates that this Olds has led a sheltered life. A close inspection might reveal minor imperfections, but as a survivor, its condition is extremely impressive. The only issue identified by the seller is that the A/C doesn’t blow cold. That requires further investigation, but won’t prevent the buyer from enjoying this Cutlass immediately.

This 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme is a stunning survivor, and the new owner will undoubtedly turn heads and draw crowds wherever they go. The 455ci V8 will find favor with many potential buyers, with the interior features potentially sealing the deal. The seller’s price looks competitive in the current market, and with values climbing slowly but consistently, it is a car that shouldn’t lose money if treated respectfully. It has only been on the market for a few days, but do you think it will find a home fairly quickly?

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Comments

  1. Stan StanMember

    Wow. Dr Olds approved. Was hoping to see the ultra rare 4sp w big motor combo… But the Hydramatic 400 is a worthy choice too. 2.73 gear ⚙️ std offering from the good Dr.
    Of course his hot-rod pedigree meant more lively choices were available.
    3.08, 3.23, or an ideal 3.42 optional equipment.🏁

    Like 6
  2. Zen

    Nice car with every option, although I really don’t care for the 73s, this would be fun to have.

    Like 4
  3. TimS

    At the risk of not being published like my last 3 or 4 comments I’ll say I don’t like red but the uniqueness of this car on today’s roads would make it a great cruiser. And maybe I’d clandestinely tweak that big block.

    Like 3
  4. Roland

    Strange to leave out power windows with everything else this car has.

    Like 6
  5. Jeff

    Love the body styles of 73-77! This one is no exception. A grin to own and drive!

    Like 3
  6. Nelson C

    Sweet ride. The beginning of Oldsmobile’s assent to number three in the sales race. This one even has the clock by the driver’s knee.

    Like 2
  7. David Cook

    I worked at a Buick/Oldsmobile dealership in the 70’s. I would say that the Cutlass Supreme was about the hottest selling car in the lineup. They would usually be sold before they hit the lot. Great memories.

    Like 0
  8. John Oliveri

    The lack of power windows with all the other options is strange, maybe an oversight?

    Like 0
    • Nelson C

      Not at all. Lots of cars with power locks and or power seat and no power windows. Was a pretty common thing then. People seemed to like the convenience of controlling the locks from the front seat rather than reaching around the car. Window regulators were easy to operate and less problematic than power windows.

      Like 2
  9. PRA4SNW PRA4SNWMember

    Nice car.
    Seems to be reasonably priced, considering it is being sold at a dealership.

    Like 0
  10. Jon Rukavina

    My second car was a ’72 Caprice triple black coupe. P/l, steering and brakes, a/c and tilt wheel. Thought that was odd, too.

    Like 1
  11. duaney

    Most of these were used up and worn out hard, very unusual to find one in this great condition.

    Like 3
  12. Jeff

    When I was a kid my older brother had a 73 old Cutlass Supreme. Bought it used from the local Ford Dealer for $3500 with 40k on the odometer in 1976. His was a pale yellow sort of color with a black vinyl top. Had the 350 with a four speed and a bench seat. Beautiful car. Drove like a rocket sled on rails. Only ever saw one other like it. He went in the service and two years later traded it in Mrtlye Beach,SC at a Ford dealer on and Fiesta when he started his Family. I was 12 thought that car was the coolest thing ever. My brother always regretted ditching that car!

    Like 0

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