DESCRIPTION

When buyers flooded Pontiac showrooms to snap up its newly minted 1964 GTO, rival division Oldsmobile jumped into the fray with its own performance intermediate, the 442, in the process helping launch the first muscle car era. It was not until 1966, however, that Olds resurrected the Tri-Power carburetion it had first made available in the 1950s. They also quietly made available a special code W-30 Track Pack option package for the Tri-Power engine using forced air induction and internal engine modifications to produce 360 HP. Sold new at St. Claire Motor Co. of San Jose, California, this 1966 Oldsmobile F85 442 Club Coupe is quite a rare find today. A very unique radio/heater/defroster delete example with superb chassis and body, it was meticulously restored in 2012 at an investment of over $88,000. It was refinished in its original code M Autumn Bronze and presents with a highly detailed interior, engine and undercarriage, better than original triple-plated and polished chrome and beautiful brightwork. The correctly coded V-block L69 400/360 engine is teamed with a full-synchro M21 close ratio 4-speed transmission and G80 Anti-Spin rear axle. The performance of its triple-carbureted forced-air V-8 is well matched by the advanced handling that prompted contemporary reviewers to judge the 1966 442 the most balanced muscle car available to buyers. Oldsmobile may be gone, but collectible muscle cars such as this contribute mightily to the companys performance legacy.