oldsmobile-442

The 3-speed auto Turbo Hydra-Matic became available as a transmission option. They heavy-duty floor-mounted 3-speed manual was now standard with the Muncie M-20 and the M-21 four-speed was optional, all with Hurst shifters.

The 1966 442 got a restyle with all new exterior shell that included a pronounced hump over the rear windows and large C-pillars that extended beyond the rear windshield.

The 1968 442 finally became its own model from 1968 through 1971. Mechanically, they had two drivetrain combos. A red 455 ci were backed by modified W-30 Turbo 400 transmissions.

Oldsmobile got serious with the 1965 Oldsmobile 442 option package and made it optional on all two-door F-85s and Cutlass models, thus eliminating the four-door models. Power was boosted with the replacement of a new 345 hp 400ci engine.

The 1964 Oldsmobile 442 was launched quickly in response to the success of the GTO. It was an option on the F-85 and Cutlass and came with a 4-barrel carb, 4-speed transmission, and dual exhaust, thus 4-4-2.

It included the FE2 suspension upgrades, (heavy-duty springs and shocks, front and rear sway bars, boxed lower rear control arms, and 14x7 wheels) side striping, fender and deck lid badging, faux hood louvers, and a unique grille.

The base 455ci was rated at 340 hp, while the W-30 achieved a rating of 350 hp. The 1971 442 was available in a hardtop coupe and convertible body type because the sport coupe disappeared for the first time since 1964.

The 1970 Olds 442 was the pinnacle of performance from Oldsmobile. GM dropped the regulation of no more than 400ci, so Olds responded with the Olds 455 V8 as the standard engine! Output was 365 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque with a 370 hp variant available with the W-30 option.

The Hurst/Olds returned with a Cameo White and Fire Frost Gold striped paint scheme, functional ram air hood scoops, rear spoiler, and the best part, a 380 hp 455ci V8. 906 production Hurst/Olds Holiday Coupes were built, plus 6 prototypes and 2 convertibles for a total of 914 cars.