Unfinished Business: 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme

The Cutlass Supreme began as a personal luxury car in 1966. And went on to become one of the industry’s best-selling cars a few years later. 90% of 1974 Supreme sales were the 2-door coupe, with the rest comprising 4-doors and wagons. The seller’s car is a project, though the photos don’t point to that, as it hasn’t been run in about five years. Needing mechanical and cosmetic attention, this ’74 Olds is available here on craigslist for $3,500 OBO. And it can be found in Kannapolis, North Carolina. Our thanks to Tony Primo for another interesting tip.

All General Motors’ mid-size cars were redesigned in 1973 and adopted “Colonnade” styling. That meant the autos were no longer true hardtops. A fixed “B” pillar was in place, but the doors used frameless glass regardless of body style (convertibles were gone). Buyers must have liked the changes, as nearly a quarter of a million Supremes were built in 1973. Sales fell off about 20% in 1974, but that was when the OPEC oil embargo wreaked havoc on supplies and prices.

The seller’s car is well-used as the odometer reads 86,000 miles, but we’re told on its second time around. A 350 cubic inch “Rocket” V8 is present along with a TH-350 automatic transmission, but are either original to the car? The engine was rebuilt a dozen years ago, and significant bling was added. Mods include dual exhaust, electronic ignition, a 4-barrel carburetor, a hotter camshaft, and headers. But a bad starter has sidelined the car since the COVID days.

Photos of the Olds are in short supply. We don’t know the condition of the interior, and we’re told there is rust in the quarter panels and under the vinyl roof covering. Two sets of rims will come with the car, with the Keystones remaining in place as pictured. The seller doesn’t have time to finish off the car, but sends along some parts to help the buyer do so. Do these Colonnade Supremes float your boat?