The Cutlass Supreme debuted in 1966 as a personal luxury car (the same year as the Olds Toronado). The 1970 model year was only the second time the Supreme would be offered as a convertible, finding more than 11,300 buyers. This edition looks to have been sitting outside for many years and needs a lot of work, though we’re told it does run. Located in Hopewell Junction, New York, the Oldsmobile is available here on craigslist for $4,900.
GM’s A-body cars were redesigned in 1968, and interest in the Cutlass Supreme really took off then. This 1970 drop-top reflects a mild styling refresh, which contributed to a nearly tripling of sales from 1969. The Supreme came with a 350 cubic inch V8 engine, and most were sold with a Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmission. This well-used example has seen 181,000 miles, most of it via the same owner who acquired the convertible in 1975.
This two-owner Olds is said to be original and clearly needs a restoration. The seller might be inclined to do it him/herself, but that party is moving to Arizona – and the Cutlass is not. Despite its appearance, it runs and drives, but stopping isn’t a sweet spot (the brakes need work). The car came with all the goodies when it was built, including factory air conditioning and power seats. The trunk floor has rust, as do the rear quarter panels.
Overall, the seller gives this convertible a “fair” rating in the condition department. And it’s not good enough to be a driver even if you fix the brakes. So, a restoration is the only logical choice, but it won’t come cheaply. The decision would be easier if it were a 442 model with a 455 V8, but instead, it only has a canvas top to its credit. What would you do? And, our thanks to “Zen” for the tip!
At this price, you have a great deal even needing quarter panels and trunk floor. Most convertibles also need floor boards but it’s all there with factory ac! I have a 68 442 convertible and they are really fun comfortable cars. Parts for these including body panels, interiors are readily available and a 455 is a bolt in however the 350 with the right parts can easily make 310hp. This is the most desirable year. Would make a fantastic Cutlass SX tribute car.