The 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado Deluxe redefined American performance luxury. Finished in vivid Tropic Turquoise, this restored example pairs its 425 CI Rocket V8 with a front-wheel-drive layout, blending power and innovation. The focus keyphrase 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado Deluxe marks one of the most daring designs of its time.
Ahead of Its Time
When the Toronado debuted, it shocked the market with its front-wheel-drive system and bold proportions. This 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado Deluxe, now fully refurbished, showcases those groundbreaking elements in renewed form. Its streamlined coupe body, long hood, and hidden headlights give it unmistakable presence.
Restored in Tropic Turquoise
The car retains its factory-correct Tropic Turquoise finish, repainted during a multi-year refurbishment completed around 2020. Prior work included rust repair to the lower fenders, new inner fenders, and refinished chrome trim. Details like pop-up headlights, flared wheel arches, and frameless windows highlight Oldsmobile’s futuristic styling.
Distinctive Deluxe Design
Chrome bumpers and bright trim surround a clean, aerodynamic bodyline. The Deluxe model adds subtle upgrades, including polished brightwork and extra cabin refinement. The missing slat trim on the right-front cornering light remains one of few imperfections in an otherwise complete restoration.
Wheels, Steering, and Suspension
The 15-inch ten-hole wheels feature polished hubcaps and period-correct tires, mixing Hankook and Yokohama brands. Power-assisted finned drum brakes deliver confident stopping power, supported by an upgraded brake booster, hoses, and cylinders. The car’s power-steering pump, shocks, and suspension components were also replaced for a smoother drive.
Refined Turquoise Interior
Inside, turquoise vinyl and cloth upholstery were carefully restored to match the original 1966 design. The Strato front bench and rear seat include folding armrests, adding comfort to this two-door coupe. Power windows, air conditioning updated for R134a, and the original AM radio retain its luxury credentials.
Classic Instrumentation
The Toronado’s cabin features a tilting and telescoping steering wheel with an aircraft-inspired horn ring. The dashboard hosts a barrel-style speedometer reading up to 135 mph, with auxiliary gauges for oil pressure and temperature. Aftermarket instruments mounted beneath the dash ensure accurate monitoring for modern driving.
425 CI Rocket V8 Power
Under the hood lies Oldsmobile’s 425 CI Rocket V8, producing 385 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. During restoration, the engine was removed, resealed, and repainted, with a new timing set and ignition parts installed. It breathes through a rebuilt Rochester Quadrajet carburetor, ensuring reliable power delivery and smooth idle.
Performance and Drive
Power is sent to the front wheels via a TH425 three-speed automatic transaxle, a remarkable setup for its era. The transmission features an electronic controller from Bruce Roe, while the exhaust system was replaced under prior ownership. Together, they deliver refined highway performance and characteristic Oldsmobile smoothness.
Engineering Legacy
The 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado Deluxe marked a turning point in American automotive engineering. Its combination of front-wheel drive, big-block V8 power, and bold design set new expectations for personal luxury coupes. Every restored element of this car reflects that spirit of innovation and attention to detail.
Summary
This 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado Deluxe, finished in Tropic Turquoise and powered by a 425 CI Rocket V8, embodies the forward-thinking vision of 1960s Oldsmobile design. Thoroughly restored and mechanically refined, it stands as a distinctive chapter in the evolution of American performance coupes.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
