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This striking 1968 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds Holiday Coupe represents a significant piece of American muscle car history, being one of just 515 examples produced for this highly sought-after model year. Dressed in the iconic Hurst/Olds color combination of Peruvian Silver over black, this coupe is powered by a formidable 455 cubic inch V8 engine, linked to a robust TH400 three-speed automatic transmission and a performance-enhancing limited-slip differential. The engine benefits from D-specification cylinder heads, a reliable PerTronix ignition system, and a rebuilt Rochester four-barrel carburetor. This classic muscle machine rides on distinctive 14-inch Super Stock II wheels and features power-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes for confident stopping. Inside, the cabin is appointed with black vinyl upholstery on the front bucket seats and rear bench, a signature Hurst dual-gate shifter, a Deluxe steering wheel, elegant walnut wood trim, and a period-correct AM/FM radio. Following the current owner’s acquisition in 2022, over $13,000 in service work has been completed, ensuring this Hurst/Olds is ready to deliver thrilling performance and classic style.
Iconic Hurst/Olds Styling: All 1968 model year Hurst/Olds vehicles were uniquely finished from the factory in the distinctive combination of Peruvian Silver and black. According to the seller, refurbishment work performed in the 1990s included the replacement of a door and the front fenders, followed by a repaint and the meticulous application of hand-painted white pinstripes, a signature Hurst/Olds detail. Further exterior features include a bold black grille, functional quarter vent windows, prominent Hurst/Olds badging, distinctive trumpet-style exhaust finishers, and functional intake ducts positioned below the front bumper, all contributing to its aggressive and recognizable appearance.
Chassis, Brakes, and Wheels: This Hurst/Olds rides on body-color 14-inch Super Stock II-style wheels, wrapped in BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires. A matching spare wheel is securely stowed in the trunk. From the factory, this performance coupe was equipped with the F41 suspension package, known for its enhanced handling capabilities. Braking is effectively managed by power-assisted front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, providing adequate stopping power for spirited driving. A significant $12,700 service performed in 2023 addressed various chassis components, including media-blasting and painting the lower control arms, lubricating all suspension joints, bleeding the brakes, installing a rebuilt steering box, and replacing the idler arm, center link, sway bar bushings, rear wheel studs, inner and outer tie rods, brake hoses, control arm bushings, and ball joints, ensuring optimal handling and ride quality.
Interior Appointments: The interior of this Hurst/Olds features comfortable front bucket seats and a rear bench, all upholstered in sleek black vinyl. Elegant walnut wood trim accents the dashboard and the shifter console, adding a touch of sophistication to the sporty cabin. Notable amenities include the iconic Hurst dual-gate shifter, allowing for both automatic and manual gear selection, a push-button AM/FM radio for period-correct entertainment, a practical locking glovebox, a safety-conscious fire extinguisher, and a functional heater. Interestingly, the dashboard displays a Doc Watson signature. Some separating seams are noted on the front seat upholstery.
Instrumentation: The driver is presented with a sporty Deluxe steering wheel, framing a comprehensive instrument panel. This includes a 120-mph speedometer, a tachometer with an integrated clock, and auxiliary gauges providing readings for fuel level, battery voltage, coolant temperature, and oil pressure. Notably, the speedometer mechanism was adjusted in 2023 to accurately reflect the new ring-and-pinion set installed at that time. The five-digit odometer currently shows approximately 14,000 miles, with about 500 miles being added under the current owner’s stewardship.
Potent 455ci V8 Engine: Under the hood lies the heart of this Hurst/Olds: a powerful 455 cubic inch V8 engine. This legendary Oldsmobile big-block is equipped with a distinctive dual-snorkel ram air induction system, performance-oriented “X and Y” exhaust manifolds, a reliable PerTronix ignition system, and a rebuilt factory four-barrel carburetor, ensuring optimal power delivery and a classic muscle car rumble. A service record from 1999 details a comprehensive engine-out service that included disassembling the engine, machining various internal components, rebuilding the high-performance D-specification cylinder heads, and replacing the camshaft and valve springs, indicating a history of proper care. More recent service in 2023 included cleaning the alternator and replacing the voltage regulator, carburetor fuel line, cooling fan, spark plugs, and exhaust manifold gaskets.
Transmission and Rear End: The robust 455 V8 sends its power to the rear wheels through a durable TH400 three-speed automatic transmission and a stout 12-bolt rear axle equipped with a limited-slip differential and 3.23:1 gears, providing excellent traction and acceleration. In 2023, Strange Transmission of Graham, Washington, expertly installed the differential and rear gears. At the same time, the kick-down switch was properly connected, a fluid and filter service was performed on the transmission, and the transmission modulator and cooler lines were replaced, ensuring smooth and reliable operation.
Cowl Tag Decoding: The cowl tag provides valuable information about this Hurst/Olds’ original production. The code “05C” indicates a production date in the third week of May. The style code “68-33687” identifies it as a 1968 Cutlass two-door Holiday Coupe, which served as the base for the Hurst/Olds conversion. The body code “LAN384938” signifies it was assembled at the Lansing, Michigan, plant and was the 384,938th unit produced there. The trim code “940” denotes the original black vinyl interior, and the paint code “Z” confirms the factory-applied Peruvian Silver exterior finish. The current Washington state title carries an Antique brand, further highlighting its classic status.
Summary
- One of only 515 1968 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds Holiday Coupes produced.
- Powered by a 455ci V8 engine with D-specification heads and PerTronix ignition.
- TH400 three-speed automatic transmission with Hurst dual-gate shifter.
- Limited-slip differential with 3.23:1 gears.
- Finished in the iconic Peruvian Silver and black.
- Recent extensive service work completed.
- Rides on 14-inch Super Stock II wheels.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle, particularly regarding the noted front seat seam separation and the functionality of all features.
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