1971 Oldsmobile 442 Convertible

The Oldsmobile 442 made its introduced in 1964. Its name referred to its four-barrel carburetor, four-speed gearbox, and dual exhausts. For 1966 the 442 became the first Oldsmobile equipped with the formidable W-30 package. This brought with it a ram-air induction system, high-performance camshaft, and stiffer valve springs. The original W-machine was available as a dealer-installed kit that could be added to nearly any Oldsmobile powerplant.

For 1968, Oldsmobile officially acknowledged the W-30 option in factory literature. A year later, the W-30 was offered exclusively for the 442. The reputation of the W-30 option reached new heights in 1970 when the F-block 455 replaced the highly tuned 400s. Further equipped with a fiberglass induction hood, heavy-duty coil springs, Delco telescopic shock absorbers and front-disc brakes, the 1970 W-30s gained acclaim for their ample creature comforts and well-rounded performance.

In similar fashion to the 1970 W-30, the 1971 W-30 was equipped with a Ram Air 455 with a hot camshaft, high-flow Quadrajet carburetor, and low-restriction dual exhaust. Power was impressive, rated at 350 bhp and 410 lb-ft of torque, and offered staggering acceleration through the gears. Its visual appearance was distinguished by a cleaner grille, updated taillight inserts, and red plastic inner fenders.

This example was delivered to its first owner through Royal Pontiac-Olds in Butler, New Jersey. The 442 engine is mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, Hurst shifter, heavy-duty Posi-Traction 3.73:1 axle, W27 rear-end cover, Rocket Rally pack gauges, Tic-Toc-Tach, bucket seats, center console, and sport steering wheel.

This W-30 convertible is equipped with power steering, power windows, power top, wood-grain trim, AM push-button radio with bi-phonic rear speaker, tinted glass, two-speed wipers, a visor vanity mirror, and accessory lamp group. The car is painted in factory-delivered color scheme of Saturn Gold with black accent stripes and red plastic inner fenders.

Prvious owners of this car include Salvatore Amodeo, Lawrence Nuzzaci, and Robbie Yow. The current owner is a Michigan-based collector. The car has been given a restoration by Joe Cubellis of New Castle, PA.

The car rides on the optional color-keyed Super Stock II wheels and Goodyear Polyglas GT tires.

Of the 110 W-30 convertibles built for the 1971 model year, this car is one of only 32 originally specified with the four-speed gearbox.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2013