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A Cut Above – 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442

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GM Scene Magazine®

Valley Restomod's 1972 Olds Cutlass 442

In an era where modern cars effortlessly glide at speeds exceeding 70 miles per hour on highways, the struggles of their predecessors can seem almost obsolete. Yet, for the enthusiast who had recently acquired a ‘72 Oldsmobile with dreams of cruising the open road, the harsh reality of vintage automotive limitations hit hard. While driving on the highway in the open desert, this restored ‘72 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 found itself struggling.

Despite its gleaming exterior and well-maintained interior, the classic car faltered when confronted with the demands of modern highway speeds. For the owner, it was a rude awakening—a realization that even the most meticulously restored vintage automobiles often fall short of our modern expectations. As he stood beside his beloved Oldsmobile, stranded on the roadside en route to Arizona, the allure of nostalgia began to wane in the face of practicality.

It was this predicament that led the owner on a quest for salvation, a journey that would ultimately bring him to the doorstep of Charles “Sleeves” Cimino, a master craftsman renowned for his ability to modernize classic cars without sacrificing their timeless charm. And thus, the stage was set for a restomod saga that would breathe new life into this cherished ‘72 Oldsmobile, transforming it into a machine capable of conquering modern highways with ease.

With the determination to overcome the limitations of age and embrace the spirit of innovation, the owner entrusted Charles with the task of revitalizing his iconic Oldsmobile at his shop, Valley Restomods of Phoenix, AZ. Together, they embarked on a journey to not only restore its former glory but also to enhance its capabilities for contemporary driving demands.

Under Charles’s expert guidance, the Oldsmobile underwent a remarkable transformation. Out went the outdated engine and transmission, replaced by a modern LS powerplant and a high-performance 4L65-E transmission, meticulously tuned to deliver seamless acceleration and effortless cruising across the desert under harsh summer heat.

But the upgrades didn’t stop there. Recognizing the importance of handling and safety, Charles outfitted the Oldsmobile with a state-of-the-art Ridetech coil-over suspension system and Wilwood disc brakes, ensuring precise control and stopping power that rivaled even the most advanced modern cars.

To complete the transformation, the Oldsmobile was equipped with stylish ESR CS11 20-inch wheels wrapped in Falken tires, adding a touch of contemporary flair to its classic design. With every detail meticulously executed, this ‘72 Oldsmobile emerged from Valley Restomods not just restored, but reborn—a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cars and the ingenuity of those who seek to keep their legacy alive.

GM Scene Magazine®