Oldsmobile’s top performance car, the 442, returned for the 1968 model year as its own model, now on a completely new A-Body platform featuring a shorter, 112-inch wheelbase and a completely new fuselage body design. Up front, a new interpretation of the familiar quad headlamp treatment was revised with rectangular turn signal lamps between each pair of headlamps, making for a relatively small grille opening. A new hood design featured chrome louvers, and a fastback roof treatment was accented with flared and sculpted wheel wells. The tail was highlighted by a chrome full-width bumper that featured thin slotted tail lamps and cutouts for the dual exhaust pipes. Under the hood, the familiar 400 CI Oldsmobile V-8 returned for 1968 relatively unchanged. It featured a 3.87-inch bore, 4.25-inch stroke, a 10.5:1 compression ratio and a Rochester Quadrajet carburetor. The horsepower level varied by transmission choice. With a manual transmission, it developed 350 HP at 5,000 RPM and 440 lb-ft of torque at 3,600. Cars equipped with an automatic, however, were rated at 325 HP at 4,800 RPM, yet still with the same torque rating. The W30 option raised horsepower to 360 with forced air induction, a hotter cam and upgraded intake and exhaust componentry. An economy option added a 2-barrel carb and highway-friendly gearing. Production totaled 33,607 units, a jump of nearly 10,000 from 1967. This gorgeous Triple White 1968 Oldsmobile 442 was the recipient of a concours-level restoration. It features its original drivetrain, including the 400/350 HP with W25 intake, carburetor and exhaust, as well as the Turbo 400 automatic. Other features include air conditioning, an AM radio with 8-track tape player, power windows, a power antenna, partially date-coded tinted glass, specific 442 badging and stripes, a painted underside and SSI wheels mounting BF Goodrich Radial T/A tires. With its eye-grabbing Triple White body, interior and vinyl top, this 1968 442 is a beautiful machine that would be a treasured addition to a muscle car or Oldsmobile collector’s stable.
