Interior retrims can be a costly part of any project build, but the seller has removed that expense from the equation with this 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442. It is in good mechanical health, requiring an exterior refresh to present at its best. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting the Cutlass listed here on Craigslist in Huntersville, North Carolina. The seller set their price at $13,400, but will consider appropriate trades.

The Third Generation 442 remained part of the Cutlass range from 1972 until 1977. This final year example is a survivor that is begging for some TLC. Its two-tone Brown Metallic and Buckskin paint exhibits age, courtesy of minor chips and imperfections. The panels are straight, and the seller states that the underside is solid. One question mark hangs over this classic, revealing itself in this shot. It appears that there might be Bondo or developing rust in the lower passenger-side rear quarter panel. It deserves an in-person inspection to confirm whether there are problems or if it is an illusion. The rear bumper fillers have succumbed to age, and it appears that the fronts are headed the same way. Reproduction replacement fillers are readily available for under $100 per pair, so addressing the shortcoming during a cosmetic refresh would be inexpensive and worthwhile. Otherwise, the trim and glass look fine, and the Super Stock III wheels look excellent.

The first owner walked the middle ground when ordering this Olds. The company offered buyers three optional V8s to power their purchase, with this car featuring the 350ci motor. As was the practice at this time, Oldsmobile was reluctant to quote official power and torque figures in its sales literature. However, it is widely accepted that the 350 placed around 170hp at the driver’s disposal. This car also features a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The seller doesn’t make outrageous mileage claims with this classic; instead, they confirm that it is in excellent mechanical health. They have installed a new battery, a new master cylinder, brake calipers, and front lines in the past two years. The Olds runs and drives well, and sees regular action.

Faulting this classic’s interior is almost impossible. This is unsurprising, considering the seller describes the trim as new. Therefore, there is no wear or other problems. The only issues noted by the seller are an inoperative fuel gauge and the fact that the car needs new front seatbelts to add the finishing touch. The factory radio has been replaced with a Kenwood radio/cassette player, but the bucket seats, console, air conditioning, and tilt wheel would still provide a comfortable motoring experience.

Classics from the 1970s spent decades in the wilderness as many enthusiasts focused on earlier and later vehicles that promised better performance or refinement. However, they have recently “grown legs” in the market, as demonstrated by the 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442. Values have climbed faster than the market average, with the trend showing no evidence of easing. The seller’s price for this Olds might be slightly optimistic, but I wouldn’t be surprised if someone hands them the cash to drive it home. Do you agree?