I’m pretty sure that if most of our readers were to pick between two identical classics where one had a known ownership history and the other was a mystery machine, they’d choose the first car every time. That is because there is a level of reassurance inherent with such vehicles, which is the case with this 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass. It has been part of the same family since Day 1, but the time is right for it to find a new home. The Cutlass is listed here on eBay in Tacoma, Washington. Bidding has raced to $7,300 in a No Reserve auction.

Oldsmobile introduced its Third Generation Cutlass in 1968, with our feature car rolling off the line during the final production year. Its owners ordered it in Baroque Gold with a Black vinyl top, and the first thing worth noting is that it has never undergone any form of restoration. That makes its overall appearance and paint shine noteworthy, with no significant flaws or defects. It is structurally sound, with the floors and underside showing no evidence of rust or other nasty surprises. That doesn’t mean it is totally rust-free, but its problems are relatively minor. They are confined to spots in the trunk lid and rear filler panel. Addressing these should be straightforward, and a good body shop could do so without compromising the car’s survivor status. The vinyl is in as-new condition, while the trim and chrome present nicely for a survivor-grade vehicle. The tinted glass is spotless, and the prone hubcaps are free from physical damage or other problems.

The theme of tidy presentation continues inside this Olds, with only a few issues begging for attention. The rear parcel tray has deteriorated significantly, but a replacement won’t break the bank since they retail for around $120. A new carpet set to address the wear on the passenger side adds $170 to the tally, but a new set of front seatcovers will set the buyer back $450. Alternatively, the winning bidder could fit a set of slipcovers onto the seats, mats on the floor, and a cover over the parcel tray for a fraction of the cost of the replacement items. Those are the only needs because the remaining trim and plastic are excellent. The back seat is wear-free, the remaining upholstered surfaces are spotless, and the dash and pad haven’t succumbed to UV damage. There are no additions or modifications beyond the practical wheel wrap. Life inside this beauty should be pleasant courtesy of the factory air conditioning, tilt wheel, and AM radio.

This Cutlass won’t be mistaken for a muscle car, but it should fulfill its creator’s vision of providing comfortable and relaxed motoring for five people. The 350ci V8 should ensure that, sending 160hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. The journey down the ¼-mile might take a relatively leisurely 17.4 seconds. However, if the new owner aimed the Cutlass at a stretch of open road, it should cruise comfortably all day at 70mph while barely raising a sweat. The seller indicates the car has seen little active service during the past five years, although it has been started weekly and maintained appropriately. They state that a new set of tires and some basic maintenance should see it return to its rightful place on our roads.

Some readers won’t be attracted to this 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass, which is fair. Not every classic ticks the boxes because everyone’s taste is different. It needs work to lift its presentation, but performing it without compromising its survivor status is possible. It might not be your first choice, but it has attracted twenty-eight bids. The action might heat up as the end draws near, but if the price stays within the current range, it could be an affordable vehicle deserving of consideration.