It seemed the large-capacity V8 was running out of time during the mid-1970s. Manufacturers focused on smaller and more efficient motors, and Oldsmobile was no exception. This 1976 Oldsmobile Toronado Brougham features a 455ci V8, marking the final year for that powerplant in a Toronado. It is a genuine survivor, and the seller recently lavished significant time and money to ensure that the buyer slips behind the wheel of a turnkey classic. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Jack M. for spotting this beauty listed here on Craigslist in Long Beach, New York. The seller set their price at $12,500 for a car that should provide a luxurious ownership experience.

Oldsmobile introduced its Second Generation Toronado range in 1971, adopting a “bigger is better” approach that dominated vehicle design at the time. Few people could envisage the upcoming energy crisis or how it would impact the sale of what would later become known as “land yachts.” The first owner ordered this 1976 Toronado Brougham in a winning combination of Ebony Black with a matching Landau-style vinyl top. The seller is candid about its condition, admitting that it would benefit from a cosmetic refresh to present at its best. However, with no major panel issues and no evidence of rust, the new owner could tackle that task at their leisure if they prioritize spotless presentation over a survivor look. The vinyl shows no evidence of distress, and the glass is clear. I can’t spot any problems with the bright trim, and the wheel covers sparkle following recent intense polishing.

What a shame the seller supplies no engine photos, because that is one of this Toronado’s key selling points. The 1976 model year was the last where Oldsmobile fitted a 455ci V8 under the hood, with the 403 taking its place the following year. This motor produced a factory-quoted 215hp, although with a curb weight north of 4,700 lbs, it needed every pony it could muster to provide respectable performance. Oldsmobile was onto a winner with the Toronado, because sending the power to the front wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission eliminated the transmission tunnel and tailshaft hump, increasing interior space. The seller indicates they recently invested over $3,500 on this car’s engine, but they don’t provide specific details about the work performed. However, they confirm that they lavished plenty of TLC on the brakes, tires, and the fuel and cooling systems. They confirm that the Toronado runs and drives perfectly and has a claimed 48,500 original miles on the clock.

The positive vibes continue inside this Toronado, which is trimmed in period-correct Red velour cloth and vinyl. The seller recently had the interior deep-cleaned, and the low odometer reading has kept the seats in as-new condition. The carpet isn’t perfect, but it still looks pretty nice for a survivor-grade vehicle with fifty years of active service under its belt. The dash and pad are spotless, and the only visible aftermarket addition is the wheel cover. Oldsmobile marketed the Toronado as a Personal Luxury Car, and this one doesn’t skimp on creature comforts. The buyer receives air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a power driver’s seat, cruise control, and a tilt wheel. I am unable to determine what type of in-car entertainment the first owner selected, but this classic should at least feature an AM/FM radio with a power antenna.

Oldsmobile broke new ground when it unveiled the original Toronado, introducing the country’s first front-wheel drive production car since Cord’s demise. It proved a winning formula, and the Toronado would continue feeding its power to the front wheels until the last cars rolled off the line in 1992. This 1976 Toronado is special because it emerged during the final year that buyers received the 455ci V8 under the hood. It isn’t perfect, but there is scope for the new owner to improve its appearance if they roll up their sleeves and adopt a DIY approach. The fact that the seller has recently invested heavily in its mechanical components means it should offer the buyer years of trouble-free motoring. Are those thoughts enough to tempt you?