Documented Restored Numbers Matching Investment Grade 442 W-30 455 V8 4 Speed

SUMMARY

To be considered investment grade, a classic must meet strict parameters. For starters, the car must be in tip-top condition. In some instances, determining that is as easy as looking at pictures. But it always helps to have some form of documentation of either a thorough restoration or serious survivor chops. Speaking of documentation: the more, the better. In summary, what we're looking for is anything that can tell the car's story or confirm its exclusivity. And ultimately, the market will directly reinforce that exclusivity, as cars of the same quality often sell for close to the same price.

By those standards, this incredible 442, a fully documented car that stayed with its original owners for over 23 years, is definitely investment grade. It wraps an original 455/4-speed drivetrain in correct blue on black aesthetics. Those strikingly handsome visuals were achieved through a $150K, body-off restoration. And since world class GM A-Bodies continue to be a sure bet for impressive gains and solid returns, it's easily some of the hobby's most desirable metal!

BODYWORK/TRIM

Assembled in Lansing, Michigan during the fourth week of February, 1970, and sold through Aloha Motors of Honolulu, Hawaii, this awesome Olds is a lights-out classic that recently benefitted from a detailed, professional restoration. Prior to that 2014 reboot, conducted by Mike Mancini's American Muscle Car Restorations Inc. of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, the car spent 23 years with its original owner: A Navy veteran who traded up from a '65 Corvette. And today, a mere 100 miles out of its rebirth, this 442 rolls as one razor-sharp coupe that mixes correct Twilight Blue 2-stage with correct Black trim and vivid W-30 war paint.

Like all second generation A-bodies, the 442 continued to get better year after year. The car's clean, boxy lines were no doubt a play on its parent division's engineering leadership within the GM hierarchy, and the resulting design continues to weather exceptionally well. At the front of this classic, a 442-specific grille centers monochromatic "442" lettering between stainless-trimmed T3 headlights and a mirrored bumper that's finished with clear parking lamps. At the top of that grille, a fiberglass ram air hood leads the eye to like-new glass that rides behind straight stainless trim. At the sides of that hood, traditional GM handles and color-keyed sport mirrors perfectly complement clean marker lamps, dent-free wheel rings and a slick combination of "442" and "W-30" fender emblems. And at the back of the car, a smooth decklid hangs more monochromatic "442" lettering above a second mirrored bumper, silver-trimmed taillights and correct, trumpeted exhaust tips.

ENGINE

It's not immediately apparent why this Olds's body carries so much sizzle; that is, until you see what's under its hood. Twist the locks, fling the resin and you'll find 455 cubic inches of Rocket V8 that hangs a correct 396021F casting number over a matching partial VIN. Stomp the throttle and a restored Quadrajet 4-barrel mixes juice from leak-free fuel lines with wind from a correct W-30 air cleaner, and shoves it in to a Winters high performance intake. At the back of that intake, a traditional points distributor feeds fire through proven Packard TV R Suppression cables, which snake around correct "F" heads, and stamped and painted valve covers. Below those covers, freshly restored exhaust manifolds shoot charred dinosaurs in to big, true-dual pipes. Mechanically, the stout mill is all day reliable, spinning 500 lb./ft. of rock-crushing torque from one of the largest and most powerful valvetrains ever created. Aesthetically, familiar plastic fenders and Metallic Blue block skin look fantastic against the car's glossy body. There's a roster of high quality ancillaries that includes a reproduction Delco Energizer battery, a tough Saginaw steering box and pliable GM radiator hoses. And the entire set up flat out rocks, from its fresh decals and vivid firewall stamps to its tagged brake lines and color-keyed intake springs.

DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION

The bottom of this awesome 442 is completely solid, showing no signs of undue wear or question-inducing battle scars. The aforementioned Rocket 455 fronts an original Muncie 4-speed, which hangs a correct 3925661 casting number opposite a matching partial VIN. That proven transmission sends power to an aluminum-capped 12-bolt, which employs moderate, highway-friendly gears. That smooth driveline hangs in a tagged FE2 heavy-duty suspension, which, along with the car's chassis, was thoroughly cleaned and fully rebuilt during the detailed restoration. Solid stops are provided by correct front disc and rear drum brakes. Turns come courtesy of an old school manual steering rack. At the center of the car, a large-diameter exhaust system funnels spent gases through baritone turbo mufflers. And everything rolls on attractive Styled Steel IIs, which spin G70-14 Firestone Wide Oval Super Sports around mirrored trim rings and rocket-branded center caps.

INTERIOR

Inside this impressive coupe, you'll find a Black Legendary interior that's both comfortable and correct. At the center of the car, correct bench seats ride on fresh carpet that's protected by "Oldsmobile" branded floor mats. At the sides of those seats, clean door panels center familiar GM armrests in bright chrome handles, straight stainless trim and fresh wood applique. Up front, a wood-trimmed dash hangs premium Rallye Pac telemetry above a colorful "442" emblem and correct AM radio. At the base of that dash, a slim boot frames a curved Hurst shifter. In front of the driver, a Sport Steering Wheel laps a bright rocket emblem. And behind the passengers, a fully restored trunk anchors a fifth Styled Steel II and stickered Firestone tire between a fresh mat, correct tools and correct decklid decals.

PROVENANCE

Since the sale of this awesome Olds includes a full ownership history and major provenance, there's no questioning the authenticity of its restoration. But, for good measure, here's a look at the car's specially coded VIN and original Fisher Body Production Broadcast Notice.

VIN: 344870M277907

PRODUCTION BROADCAST NOTICE:

OUR SALE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTATION AND ACCESSORIES

Fast, handsome and ready to roll, this investment grade coupe is a top-notch classic that mixes a full ownership history with quality restoration and outstanding appeal. As a fantastic rendition of one of the coolest Oldsmobiles ever created, it represents an absolute pinnacle in the coveted muscle car market. Looking for a premium piece of premium Detroit steel? Here it is!