For decades, Oldsmobile was nestled comfortably smack in the middle of the General Motors brand hierarchy, with Chevrolet at the beginning and Cadillac representing the top of the corporation. Conservative, Oldsmobiles were well made, could be as luxurious as a Cadillac and were known for having more than ample power on many occasions. Not that Oldsmobile drew any attention to that attribute, but customers who knew appreciated the fact that they could breeze up a freeway onramp without fear of holding up traffic or getting run over by it. And Oldsmobile had a major following. But it was beginning to age out in the early 1960s, reflected by slowing sales. Looking to engage in the newly emerging muscle car wars and gain the attention of younger buyers, Oldsmobile introduced the 442 performance package on the midsize Oldsmobile Cutlass later in 1964. Very few were sold that first year, but for 1965, sales were around 25,000 units. Sales were strong and steady enough that for 1968, the 442 became its own model line. Through the years, the 442 evolved and matured, becoming more and more formidable as a performance car with various packages helping it along, most notably the W-30 package. For 1970, the 442 would reach a kind of performance apex, thanks to the newly available 455 CI V-8 and, of course, the W-30 package. This 1970 Oldsmobile 442 has earned a MCACN Concours Gold award and is equipped with matching numbers 455/370 HP V-8 with an automatic transmission. An original California car with original panels, it is finished in Autumn Gold Metallic with a black vinyl top and matching interior. Advertising its performance prowess, it is also fitted with a black beltline stripe, fiberglass hood with air intakes and black stripes, a rear wing, Uniroyal white lettering tires and Rally Wheels. In typical Oldsmobile fashion, it keeps drivers comfortable with power steering and power brakes with front discs, simulated wood grain applique throughout the interior and a thick steering wheel with a polished center. The black interior is also fitted with high-support Strato Bucket Seats, a center console, air conditioning, full instrumentation with a Tic-Toc-Tac and an AM/FM/8-Track radio. The automatic transmission is controlled by a racy and stylish Hurst gated shifter. Highly detailed, the engine compartment features the signature red wheel well tops while the engine is finished in Oldsmobile Blue, a host of polished and coated parts reflecting a factory-correct look.
