1969 Oldsmobile 442 Coupe
The "4-4-2" name (pronounced "Four-Four-Two") derives from the original car's four-barrel carburetor, four-speed manual transmission, and dual exhausts (Some maintain that the '2' indicated positive traction rear differential). It was originally written "4-4-2" (with badging showing hyphens between the numerals) and remained hyphenated throughout Oldsmobile's use of the designation. Beginning in 1965, the 4-4-2's standard transmission was a 3-speed manual along with an optional 2-speed automatic and 4-speed manual, but were still badged as "4-4-2"s. By 1968 badging was shortened to simply "442", but Oldsmobile brochures and internal documents continued to use the "4-4-2" model designation.
For consignment a true, numbers matching, Olds 442 that was the beneficiary of a frame up restoration 10 years ago. Prior to this restoration it has spent its life in Florida and is now in the hands of its 3rd owner, who did all the restoration. The original owner's manual and window sticker is present and will come with the car, as well as complete documentation of the restoration.
Exterior
The original Glade Green is now a splendid Aztec Gold, and it is a well-done paint job. Wide black stripes race from the front hood to the windshield. Breaking up the stripes on the roof is a pristine black vinyl top. All badging and trim work as well as bumpers are very clean and nicely polished. A sloping rear deck rounds off nicely with vertical wrap around taillights that float between the trunk lid and the bumper. Dual chromed exhaust tips exit under the bumper through small coves in the bottom of the bumper. 15-inch honeycombed gold and polished Oldsmobile Super Stock II wheels and deep dishes are wrapped with Firehawk rubber.
Interior
A swing of the doors and we see plenty of tuck and roll vinyl with a triangular pattern in black for the panels. Front bucket seats are similar with the tuck and roll inserts and smooth black vinyl bolsters. These sit within a plastic molded tub that has a chrome piped edging where it meets the bolsters. Headrests are noted on the buckets, and a rear bench stretches from door to door. A very clean dash which is original but fully restored has all the correct buttons, instruments and knobs, and is fronted by a clean and beautiful steering wheel. The original radio is in the center but is not currently hooked up. A small cluster of 3 gauges hangs below the dash in a chromed bezel. Carpet is in very good condition, as is the headliner, nice and tight. Lest I forget the center console has matching burl wood appliqu with a walnut spherical shift knob.
Drivetrain
A numbers matching 400ci V8 complete with a 4-barrel Edelbrock carburetor, (original carb is included as well). Gold painted valve covers, and intake manifold are contrasted by the red Olds 442 badged air cleaner. Hoses are all supple and shiny, and absolutely not a hint of any corrosion under here. On back is a TH400 3-speed automatic; also, numbers matching. A 12-bolt rear with 3.23 gears has posi-traction.
Undercarriage
As one would expect, the underside shows some surface rust and nice patina but is structurally sound. Floor pans are clean and rust free, and rockers have a slight bit of surface rust, but none invasive. Power disc brakes for the front, and power drums for the rear provide the stopping power. Independent coil springs are upfront and 4 link with coil springs are on the back. A Flowmaster exhaust snakes its way rearward to the chrome tipped ends.
Drive-Ability
Certainly, a quick starter, and smooth runner. Nice power as we went through the paces, along with good handling, and no creaking or squeaking when going through a turn. A great cruiser with some snappy acceleration, all looking good on the test drive.
A muscle car that is a step above the GTO's and Chevelles with its upscale trimmings, textures and materials used. Similar coke bottle design, but done in a tasteful way, and this with the black over gold, stripes, and muscle under the hood, this car is definitely an investment that is sure to rise in the coming years. All numbers matching, and all restored so you can turn the key and drive away into the sunset.
VIN Decode
344879111362
3-Oldsmobile
4487- 442 2 Door Holiday Coupe
9-1969
111362-Sequential Unit Number
Trim Tag
ST 69 34487-1969 Oldsmobile 442 2 Door Holiday Coupe
BDY OS517911-Oshawa Body #
TR 930-Black Vinyl Buckets
PNT 57-Glade Green C60-Air Conditioning
D55-Console
M40-Th400 Automatic Transmission
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 450 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.