Oldsmobile rolled the dice in 1966 by introducing a personal luxury automobile that was mechanically different from its competitors. It was the first U.S.-produced front-wheel-drive car since the Cord 810/812 in 1937. It would use a transaxle version of GM’s Turbo-Hydramatic transmission which would also find its way into recreational vehicles. This 1969 edition is said to run well but needs some work in a variety of areas. From Colts Neck, New Jersey, this baby blue project is available here on craigslist for $6,500 OBO. Thanks, Pat L., for your sleuthing efforts!
The success of the Toronado would transcend 27 model years (1966-92) and four generations. The Toronado, Cadillac Eldorado, and Buick Riviera would share GM’s E-platform though the Riviera was the only entry that had rear-wheel-drive. The car’s name was borrowed from a 1963 Chevy show car and had no prior meaning. From 1968, the Toronado would be powered by a 455 cubic inch V8 that was rated at 375 hp (400 with the W-34 option, not apparent with this car). The 1970 edition eliminated the use of hidden headlights.
Details and photos are few relative to the seller’s auto. It’s said to have less than 80,000 miles and both the motor and transmission are in good shape. The body and paint may also be good, and we’re told there is no rust. But when the buyer gets the Oldsmobile home, he/she will need to get the brakes redone and replace the exhaust. And the interior has issues, but we don’t know the extent of the problems. When taking it out for a spin, you won’t pass many gas stations as the average fuel consumption was about 12 mpg.
3 Tornado write ups in 2 days!
Subtleties and nuances abound. IMHO….1966/67 front bumper/grill looks best. The 1968/69 front bumper looks heavy/1950 ish because of the wrap-arounds. 1970 front bumper/grill is a good evolution. If you need a vinyl roof, I think the 68 is best with the stainless strip that separates the vinyl from the rain gutter. The rotating drum speedometer is cool/similar to a Mercedes.
Great finds and writeups!
Nice cars. The problem with these now, like this one, is you practically have to get them for “Free”. The cost to get them “Looking” and “running” the way you want them will probably cost close to 12k-15k just on the moderate level. This one definitely has potential. They are great cars, they are just too expensive to restore unless you have the ability to do the restoration yourself. Good luck to the new owner.
I think my prom tux was that color in 1976.
So sorry. LOL. At least not purple velvet like in movie, “My Cousin Vinnie”. This isn’t best color for this car!
For safety’s sake, front disc brakes are highly desirable on these nose-heavy beasts if the car will be driven in today’s “normal” traffic, and neither of the two recent listing identified if the cars were so equipped.
Love that Earl Scheib baby-blue paint job!
I always liked the look of this car …. nice style
I love the personal luxury car styling. The baby blue paint is my favorite automotive shade. The 455 V8 in 1969 had real power and torque and automatic transmission is a no-brainer to enjoy driving the big Olds. Front wheel drive gave the car a measure of traction on wet and snowy roads unlike its competitors. Of course, the Toro is 54 model years old and would need upgraded disc brakes all around, modern radial tires, converted air conditioning and a host of restorative repairs and services. If one could fund the project, they would have a fantastic car from an orphan brand that would be fun to drive to shows, on car cruises and weekend getaways. Seeing this Toronado in today’s marketplace of turtle shaped look a like silver and gray and black depressing cars makes me wish to turn back the automotive time machine when American V8 muscle ruled the sales figures.
Odd the ENTIRE grill on each side flips up!
https://images.craigslist.org/00k0k_jYjmnUqLMkIz_0cU09G_1200x900.jpg
“Exhaust and interior (needed) to be grate”
Grate indeed.
sigh…..
Paint this color on any vehicle and you have one ugly mother