The 1964 Oldsmobile 442 stands as an icon of American muscle car history, combining robust performance with distinctive styling. This particular example, finished in a stunning metallic blue, is powered by a rebuilt 400ci V8 engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission. It offers an engaging driving experience that reflects the golden era of motoring.
Exterior Highlights
Originally finished in factory Silver Blue, the car was repainted under previous ownership, showcasing its metallic blue exterior with polished chrome accents. Notable features include the F-85 grille badge, dual exhaust outlets, and 442 fender emblems. Chrome Cragar S/S wheels, paired with staggered-width Cooper Cobra Radial G/T tires, add a touch of modern flair to the car’s vintage charm. Despite its stunning appearance, rust bubbles are visible along the body seams, hinting at the vehicle’s age and character.
Interior Details
Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin reupholstered in metallic blue vinyl. The low-back bucket seats and matching rear bench offer period-correct style and comfort. A wood-rimmed steering wheel, installed by the current owner, complements the metallic blue interior. Additional features include a center console, glovebox, and wing windows. However, a few quirks remain: the heater does not shut off, the cigarette lighter is missing, and the radio is inoperative.
Instrumentation and Gauges
The dashboard features a sweeping 120-mph speedometer and a fuel-level gauge. A tachometer mounted to the steering column, auxiliary gauges below the dash, and a manifold vacuum gauge ahead of the Hurst shifter provide a detailed view of the car’s performance metrics. While the odometer displays 88,000 miles, total mileage remains unknown.
Rebuilt Performance
Under the hood lies a rebuilt 400ci V8, completed in August 2018. The engine received a series of upgrades, including a Crower camshaft, an Edelbrock intake manifold, and a Wizard Cooling aluminum radiator. The cylinder heads were resurfaced, and replacement components such as pistons, rods, and bearings were installed during the rebuild. Despite these enhancements, the clutch requires replacement, and some corrosion is noted on the exhaust components.
Chassis and Handling
Power-assisted steering and four-wheel drum brakes ensure confident handling, while rebuilt brake shoes provide reliable stopping power. Though the shocks have been replaced, the rear sway bar is missing, slightly affecting suspension performance. The car also features a limited-slip differential with 3.55:1 gears for improved traction.
A Legacy of Style and Performance
The 1964 Oldsmobile 442 represents a unique chapter in muscle car history, combining bold aesthetics with a thrilling driving experience. Its blend of vintage charm and mechanical upgrades makes it a standout example of this classic model.
Specifications:
- Engine: 400ci V8, rebuilt with performance upgrades
- Transmission: Four-speed manual
- Differential: Limited-slip, 3.55:1 gears
- Exterior Color: Metallic Blue (originally Silver Blue)
- Interior: Metallic blue vinyl upholstery
- Key Features: Chrome Cragar wheels, Hurst shifter, power-assisted steering and brakes
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
