Numbers matching restored original 442 clone

Everyone says they want a Chevelle, but the cars we have the most difficulty keeping in stock are under $30k muscle cars like this extremely nice, one family-owned 1972 Cutlass 442 Tribute. Dressed in classic, bold colors and offering the near-perfect blend of performance and luxury, it's no surprise that these are gaining traction as some of the best collector cars to own. While all the A-bodies shared some underpinnings, somehow the Olds got the most dramatic... sheetmetal, with that seductive kick-up behind the doors and a sweeping front end. Finishing it in Code 48G Green certainly helps emphasize the car's finer points, because as we all know, it's nearly impossible to hide bad bodywork under dark paint. The work was finished not long ago and shows some signs of use, but still looks great today, making this the kind of car that stands out without making a spectacle of itself. Instead, onlookers will surely appreciate the deep shine of the finish, the painted-on black 442 hood and side stripes, and the contrasting black vinyl top. Twin grilles up front have an intricate egg crate pattern, a theme that is echoed in the taillight lenses, the big deck lid spoiler looks primed for battle, and all the correct 442 badges have been installed where they belong, so despite this being a tribute, this Olds looks just about the way GM intended. Fore and aft are 442 bumpers, with dual trumpet exhaust tips poking out of the rear to complete the killer look. This Cutty certainly looks like a luxury car inside, where green vinyl bucket seats add to the upscale atmosphere. The upholstery is in excellent condition, which is thanks to a combination of durable materials and excellent care. The carpets are plush, and the wood applique on the dash, center console, and door panels adds a touch of sophistication to this muscle car's cabin. Factory air is not unusual in these cars, but it sure is nice when you're out cruising or on a long road trip, and the modern R134a refrigerant means it's actually blowing cold. A Sony AM/FM/CD stereo was installed underneath the dash, and the four-spoke Olds steering wheel looks right in place and fantastic. The gauges with their clear black-and-white markings look great, the bright needles are still vivid, and even the woodgraining on the dash is fairly convincing. Open the ample trunk and you'll find an original mat and full-sized spare. Guys who know Oldsmobiles know that the 350 cubic inch small block V8 is as durable as a block of granite and makes great torque that its siblings over at Chevy and Pontiac can only envy. With a unique sound, this number matching motor fires easily and offers a slightly lumpy idle that hints of big performance to come. Aside from a newer Edelbrock 4-barrel and intake, there aren't any performance upgrades, but none are really needed as this Cutty handles itself quite well in any situation. Chrome dress-up pieces like the open-element Edelbrock air cleaner and shiny valve covers boost the presentation in an already tidy and clean engine bay, highlighting a well-maintained machine that has never needed major surgery. It's backed by a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission and a set of highway-friendly gears in the 10-bolt rear-end, so it just loafs along at cruising speeds, making it the ideal car for long road trips. Power steering allows for relaxed two-finger driving, and responsive power front disc brakes stop the whole show on command. Color-coordinated Super Stock II wheels always look best on an Oldsmobile and wear 245/60/14 white-letter BFGoodrich radials all around. This '72 Olds Cutlass 442 Tribute offers a lot of bang for the buck, great small block V8 performance, and a look that will get attention everywhere it goes, all for the fraction of the price of a real 442. What's not to love? Call today!