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Rare 1968 Oldsmobile 442 Flexes Desirable Triple Blue Package, W-30 Upgrades

1968 442 with rare triple blue option 20 photos
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution/eBay seller 173bbc
1968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 4421968 Oldsmobile 442
1968 marked a new beginning for the 442, as Oldsmobile decided to promote the car to a standalone lineup. Having gained series status, the 442 became even more appealing to customers in the States, with sales exceeding 33,000 units for this model year.
The carmaker offered the new 442 in three body styles: Sport coupe (the standard coupe), Holiday coupe (the hardtop), and the 2-door convertible. Oldsmobile also introduced a station wagon referred to as Vista Cruiser, but this version joined the lineup in 1970.

The 442 could also be ordered with the desirable W-30 package, which added performance upgrades, including ram air intake hoses and air scoops.

Now, get ready to be amazed.

The 1968 442 convertible posted on eBay by seller 173bbc is a rare model you probably won't see elsewhere. It looks incredible, and before you ask, yes, the car has already been restored, with everything now in tip-top shape.

What makes it so rare? First, the convertible wasn't the most common choice for the typical 1968 442 buyers. Only over 5,000 units rolled off the assembly lines, and it's unclear how many are still around today. Second, a 442 with a tripe blue package is even rarer, though I won't have any figures to convince you – I did find some unofficial numbers claiming that Olds produced only 400 units, but I couldn't get confirmation.

The restoration turned this car into a fascinating contraption, with everything shining like on a new car. It doesn't make sense to discuss its condition, given it's a perfect 10 inside, outside, and under the hood, so I'll stick with the most important tidbits.

The original engine is still in the car. The 400 V8 runs and drives, and it's paired with the original transmission that came with the car. The numbers match, and you'll be happy to hear that the restoration also included a partial W-30 treatment, as the car received a performance camshaft and 30 over pistons.

A mesmerizing 442 that looks so good shouldn't be spoiled with aftermarket upgrades, and yet, the restoration also sported such "goodies, including an aftermarket radio. The owner says they have all the original parts, and they're included in the sale alongside original documents, such as the owner's manual.

The car wears the original code D Sapphire Blue with bucket seats and console in code 943 Blue and a blue convertible top.

The selling price is unsurprising, but it'll be hard to find a new owner, considering these high expectations. The owner wants to get $90K for this gorgeous 442, but it'll be hard to convince someone to pay that much despite being a rare car. However, the Make Offer option is also enabled if a buyer wants the car but doesn't want to pay that much.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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