The Fifth Generation Oldsmobile 442 marked the end of the line for the iconic badge. It wouldn’t disappear permanently for a few more years, but these were the last produced on a rear-wheel drive platform. This 1985 model presents superbly, with the seller stating it has been meticulously maintained. It appears to need very little and is loaded to the brim with factory options. This 442 has generated significant interest since the seller listed it here on eBay in Marysville, Ohio. Intense action has pushed the price beyond the reserve to $20,996, with the auction heading rapidly to its conclusion.
The Astroroof was a rare option offered on the Fifth Generation Oldsmobile 442. Therefore, it is surprising that we should see two of these cars cross our desks at Barn Finds in under three months. The other was a 1987 edition and was also in exceptional condition. This car presents superbly, with its Code 19 Black paint holding an impressive depth of color and shine. The Silver lower extremities and chrome Super Stock III wheels offer a striking contrast, and it is virtually impossible to spot any faults or issues that cause concern. An in-person inspection will probably reveal minor imperfections, but this 442 is guaranteed to attract attention wherever it goes. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and there is no evidence of rust or failing plastic. The glass is flawless, and the decals are crisp and free from shrinkage and checking.
The original owner wasn’t afraid to splash their cash on this Oldsmobile, and they didn’t stop with the Astroroof. They equipped the interior with air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a six-way power driver’s seat, cruise control, a leather-wrapped tilt wheel, a rear defroster, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player. It is common for cars of this vintage to feature aftermarket additions, but this 442 is exactly as it left the showroom floor. The interior condition is noteworthy because there is no evidence of significant wear or abuse. The upholstered surfaces and carpet are excellent. The dash, pad, and console are spotless, but the headliner has begun to sag and come away from the edge of the Astroroof. Replacement headliners retail for around $220, so fixing the issue won’t break the bank. The wheel can be prone to deterioration, but this one shows no signs of such problems.
The 1985 Oldsmobile 442 was considered a muscle car, although they weren’t the fire-breathing beasts as seen during the 1960s and early 1970s. This car’s 307ci V8 sends 180hp and 225 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. The company adopted a “one size fits all” philosophy, meaning there was no manual option to improve performance potential. The ¼-mile journey took a fairly leisurely 16.9 seconds, although this figure was significantly better than the 18.7 seconds delivered by the most potent 1985 Cutlass Supreme. The seller says that this Olds is numbers-matching and has been meticulously maintained. The odometer shows 33,000 miles, but there is no reference to evidence verifying its authenticity. The engine kicks into life instantly when the key is turned, and there are no fluid leaks or other problems. It runs and drives perfectly, ready for the new owner to slip behind the wheel and head off into the sunset.
It is easy to see why this 1985 Oldsmobile 442 has already attracted thirty-seven bids because its condition is impressive. The reserve has been met, meaning it is set to find a new home shortly. This car would suit someone seeking one of the best examples in existence, especially if they also crave a luxurious driving experience. It will be close to perfect with the headliner replaced,and it will be fascinating to see if we have readers willing to join the bidding war.
Very nice. I’m tempted since Marysville is like a one tank trip from me, but out of my price range. Wasn’t there another like this not too long ago going for fifteen? A California car no less. This one is loaded for sure, but no pictures of the Astro roof.
There’s link to a pic of it in the second paragraph of the write-up.
Astroroof?
Thats a T-top….it would be great if people that actually knew just a little bit about cars would write these.
I agree. I’m fairly certain the motor is the Chevy 305 H.O.
307 Oldsmobile, although equally underwhelming. This is the best looking G body, in need of an LS swap.
No that is the Olds 307 not the Chevy 305. I own a 83 Hurst Olds and this same year 442. Note the olds oil fill tube in front of the air cleaner. I have squeezed almost a half second out of it in 1/4 mile times by replacing the computer chip. They are nice running cars and I have owned both since new. Thanks
So step up and write for Barn Finds. Give me a break, these guys write about an incredible variety of vehicles, and yes, every now and then a minor mistake is made. That being said, please share your broad wealth of automobile and other vehicle knowledge and enlighten us!
It’s an Olds 307 engine. And as Ralph mentioned, those are T-tops (aka “hatch roof”) and not Astroroof. Astroroof was a power sunroof option and is indeed very rare.
Oldsmobile how do I miss thee?? Well I do love this car for one. But here is my chance to learn something today! Was the high mount brake light not mandated in 1985? I had an 84 Thunderbird Turbo Coupe which didn’t have it. But I always thought the high mount was law in 85 yet this beautiful 85 doesn’t seem to have one. Help?!
1986 was the first year that it was federally mandated.
NICE!! Definitely needs an LS and maybe even a super charger just for, well, why not…..
These were extremely good looking cars. I’ve had an 87 GN and a 87 Monte Carlo SS, the GN of course is a whole different league. The SS with it’s lacklustre 305 shines next to the Hurst Olds, even with the 3:73 rears. But as I said, beautiful car. The headliner is pretty easy to DIY… the material is inexpensive, and all you need is a can of spray adhesive. The T-tops make it easy to handle (because of its size) and maneuver around by yourself. I’ve done several of them. Did I mention, great looking car?
Nice looking, but still a 442 in name only. That LS swap sounds cliche but at least it’ll give this car the kind of performance that’s close enough for this car to live up to its name.
A 403 can sit in the same spot easiest of all, and look so much better than yet another LS swap !
Very nice well cared for original survivor. That’s also a nice driving cruise night car. But man does swapping in an LS ever wake these cars up! Something like a 400 hp 450 lbs ft tq, with a spring and shock and brake upgrades, that would double the smiles per mile and probably add to the mpg when just smoothly cruising.
SOLD for $24,706.
I won the bid on eBay on February 20, 2024. However, it turned out to be a scam; the person who auctioned the car called me with a heavy Middle Eastern accent after the auction, asking me to wire money. I explained that I lived just 30 minutes away and could pay in cash or with a cashier’s check. He became upset and hung up on me. It was discovered that the car had been sold in 2022, and the seller had used pictures from another website and posted them on eBay
Sorry to hear that. The scams on EBay are never ending, you almost have to spend time investigating every auction before placing a bid.
I used to use this tool to perform image searches, but it seems to never find anything on Bring A Trailer – not sure why – and that is where a lot of these scammers get their “cars” from. https://tineye.com/
You could try Google image search.
Jesse, I agree, I also use Google Image Search and only do it as an enthusiast.
If I were to actually bid on a vehicle, I would scrutinize the crap out of it.
It’s easy enough to do and doesn’t take much time.
I value my money and don’t want some lowlife scum to remove it from my pockets.