1966 Oldsmobile 442

1966 Oldsmobile 442 Sport Coupe The 4-4-2 name (pronounced Four-four-two) derives from the original cars 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 Oldsmobiles use of the designation. Beginning in 1965, the 4-4-2s standard transmission was a 3-speed manual along with optional 2-speed automatic and 4-speed manual, but were still badged as 4-4-2s. 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 probably one of the nicest examples of the 66 Olds 442 out there. The list just goes on and on as to the extent this car has been restored, and it all shows with a nearly concours example. This description is a whos who or quality replacement and rebuilt to factory spec parts, and then some improvements to the original. Virtually a showroom condition car, from 1966 with a mere 300 consignor stated miles since the frame off restoration. Exterior The WOW factor is strong with this car all bathed in the factory correct Silver Mist lacquer, after a complete disassembly of all the panels to remediate any rust or dents that may have marred the panels up to the point of the restoration. Chrome plating was extensive and all-encompassing with bumpers, side vents, and brite-work. From its laser straight panels to the flying buttress rear window pillars, big taillights on either corner, dual exhaust and gaps that are very consistent, it is a quality job that has been performed well. American racing mag style wheels in matte gray are adorning each corner and all are wrapped with Firestone (Coker) wide oval redline tires. New factory correct glass is all around just as a side note. Interior Upfront the original dash has been restored to show condition. This consists of two round gauges, one a speedo and the other a series of warning lights in the second circle. These sit on the horizon of an aluminum strip running the gamut of the dash above and some dark ribbed vinyl molded perfectly to make the lower portion of the dash. This is a radio delete car, as well as a heater delete, and all on this dash are looking excellent as they did off the showroom floor in 1966. Noted on the left, next to the original steering wheel, which is pristine, is a rebuilt factory sidewinder tachometer neatly mounted to the dash top right next to the A pillar. Creative Auto Interiors has handmade all the black interior coverings, and door panels feature new wood inserts. This car sports manual steering although the box has been completely rebuilt and upgraded to make the steering smooth and easy. Black carpeting in perfect form covers the floors and a 442 Hurst shifter rides from the center hump. Above is a tight and perfect headliner. Drivetrain This factory correct and totally rebuilt 400ci mill which has been bored .30 over is looking just wonderful in its bronze painted splendor. It has been completely gone over by Jack Merkel, noted Olds engine builder. The valve covers, air cleaner shroud, and oil filler cap are also freshly replaced with excellent chrome. The air and fuel delivery system is the Track Pac system. On top are the correct tri power carburetors in a trio of 2-barrels with correct tags, and on back is another correct Muncie 4-speed manual transmission and a 10-bolt 4.11 posi rear axle, rebuilt with ring and pinion setup and high strength axles. The entire electrical system has been completely rebuilt, and the battery has been relocated to the trunk, and is correct for this year with the (3) 2bbl carb setup. Undercarriage When we say frame off, we did not expect the entire frame and undercarriage to be blasted then powder coated to the correct factory black finish. A year appropriate exhaust manufactured by Gardner Exhaust snakes its way past all these clean components and suspension. Which are independent coil springs for the front, and a 4 link with coil springs for the rear. Drum brakes are on all 4 corners. Drive-Ability As expected what looks like a show car also runs like one as well. She fired right up and idled that we could barely hear it. Off to the test track where it performed beautifully, with a quick response to the pressing of the gas pedal, bias free panic stopping, and excellent cornering with those Cokers. All was working just perfectly and when we got back we were that impressed, we spent some time with a book provided with invoices and photos of this great undertaking. I cannot think or see anything honestly that would detract from the value of this beautiful showroom quality car from 1966. With the Track Pac option, some extra chrome, all rebuilt drivetrain and a powder coated undercarriage, get in turn the key and put a smile on your face as you think about where you will put your trophies in the future! Main street never looked so appealing with NOT your grandfathers Olds. VIN DECODE 338076Z105770 3-Oldsmobile 3807-Cutlass Sport Coupe, 442 Option 6-1966 Z-Fremont, CA Assy Plant 105770-Sequential Unit Number TRIM TAG 11C-3rd Week November Build ST 6633807-1966 Cutlass Sport Coupe, 442 Option BDY BF498-Fremont Body # TR 960-Black Vinyl PNT WWW-Silver Mist, Body Color Painted Wheels With Dog Dish Caps ACC 7888-Fremont Broadcast #