The Story

The 1965 Oldsmobile 442 burst onto the muscle car scene as Olds’ answer to the Pontiac GTO, blending luxury with raw power. Named for its 400 cubic inches, four barrel carburetor, and dual exhaust pipes, the 442 packed a 400ci V8 with 345 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque, hitting 0-60 in about 5.5 seconds based on a Car & Driver test. Motor Trend called it a “gentleman’s hot rod,” outpacing the Chevy Chevelle SS (325 hp) and rivaling the GTO (360 hp) in straight-line grunt. Oldsmobile built just 25,003 442s in 1965, a fraction of the 75,352 GTOs, making it a distinctive force on the street.

This 442 was built in the 4th week of May 1965 and it rolled off the Fremont, CA factory line with Burgundy Mist paint, red interior, and loaded with options. The 400ci V8 ran its power through an optional two speed Super Turbine 300 automatic transmission and a posi-traction rear differential with 3.23:1 gears, according to code "SF" stamped on the axle tube. It was delivered new to Williams Oldsmobile Co. in Brawley, CA and was sold on June 9th 1965 to its original owner, who lived in El Centro, CA.

The seller purchased the 442 in 2013 from a gentleman in New Mexico, complete with original owner documents and the protect-o-plate. The seller owned a similar 442 in high school and bought it with restoration dreams, only to snag a running example later. It has been stored in the seller’s barn and untouched since it last ran. It’s a project with a solid foundation and offers a prime chance to restore an Oldsmobile muscle car icon.

The seller holds a clean New Mexico title in the previous owner's name. There is a reserve that will need to be met in order for it to sell.

What You Get

Drivetrain & Chassis:
This 442 retains its original 400ci V8, pumping out 345 horsepower when new, paired with what’s believed to be the original column-shift automatic transmission and differential. The car ran and drove 12 years ago, showing it’s ready for an overhaul. Power steering and power brakes round out the factory setup, adding to its high-optioned status. All factory suspension and brakes are in place, including the rear sway bar. The gas tank was removed to cut out the trunk floor and is in good condition. The drivetrain is a solid base for a muscle car rebuild.

Body & Frame:
The body carries the 442’s classic lines, with the driver-side quarter panel already replaced. The major body panels and frame are reportedly free from rust, with minor rust limited to the rear window frame and trunk lip opening. The original trunk lid, rear window, and trunk filler panel are included but only set in place, not secured. All exterior trim is present, preserving the car’s iconic look. The high-optioned package includes a remote side view mirror and power antenna. All of the glass is included, though the windshield is cracked. The frame is rust free and does not need repair.

Interior & Floors:
The interior is completely original and unrestored, packed with rare options including tilt wheel, electric driver’s seat, electric windows, remote trunk release, air conditioning, and two-speed wipers with washer. All electrical components, except for the air conditioning, were working 12 years ago. The dash, seats, and door panels are original, offering a great starting point for restoration while using the existing hardware. The cabin floors are solid except for the front passenger side pan and the trunk floor has been cut out. A replacement trunk floor is included.

What You Need

Drivetrain & Chassis:
The numbers matching 400ci V8 has three dead cylinders, requiring a rebuild in order for it to roar again. The transmission and rear axle, believed original, need full evaluation after 12 years of sitting. Power steering and brakes should be inspected for function and repaired as needed. All suspension needs to be checked and replace any worn bushings, mounts, shocks, etc. The tires hold air for transport and storage, but will need to be replaced prior to driving on the road.

Body & Frame:
The body panels are largely rust free except for some small holes around the rear window and trunk lip opening as pictured. The rear window, trunk lid, and trunk filler panel are only set in place and will need to be installed once the rust repair is completed on the window frame. The driver quarter was replaced from the midway point (where the paint is missing) to the tip of the rear and will need extra prep prior to paint as there is some old body filler in the area, especially up next to the window. The passenger quarter has some dents that will need to be fixed. The seller has not found evidence of body filler on any other areas of the car. All weather stripping and other body seals will need replacement. The driver-side tailpipe is missing and is needed to complete the exhaust system.

Interior & Floors:
The interior requires a complete restoration. The original seats, door panels, and headliner are worn, needing new upholstery, foam, and a headliner kit. The hardware from the door panels can be retained and swapped to the new ones. The dash pad is cracked and will need replacement. The wiper switch and original radio are included and uninstalled. The carpet is missing and the operation of the electric seat, windows, antenna, and trunk release should be checked. The air conditioning system needs to be checked for proper function and repaired as needed.