One of only 264 W-30 Convertibles built in 1970.
GM had all sorts of rare muscle cars in the '60s and '70s, and the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 is definitely one that is always worth mentioning. As if the standard 442 didn't already offer enthusiasts enough performance, the W-30 delivered even more power and represented the high-water mark for performance from GM's Oldsmobile brand. The 1970 442 W-30 was a limited-production model with less than 300 convertibles being made, and this white-on-blue convertible will be up for grabs next month through Raleigh Classic Car Auctions.
All 1970 442s featured a 455 CID V8, but the W-30 package kick things up a bit with its signature fiberglass hood with functional air scoops as well as engine enhancements that include low-restriction air cleaner, aluminum intake manifold, special camshaft, cylinder heads, distributor, and carburetor. The result of these modifications was a minor bump in power output over a base 442 with the W-30 models rated at 370 horsepower. This convertible is equipped with the Turbo 400 automatic transmission making it just one of 168 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 convertibles built that year; another 96 were equipped with a four-speed manual gearbox.
This particular 442 W-30 convertible has spent many years as part of a collection based in Southern California, which explains why this car is in pristine condition. Not only is it in excellent shape, but it also has detailed documentation that dates back to when it was new. This car shows extremely well with its beautiful blue paint job accented by the bright chrome, white hood stripes, white convertible soft top and the Magnum wheels. The interior of this W-30 is just as nice with white bucket seats up front separated by a center console, and this car even has the Hurst Dual Gate Shifter for a manual-driving experience.
This muscle car icon will be featured at the Winter 2019 Raleigh Classic on December 6-7 along with many of the other cool, classic and collectible vehicles that will be crossing the auction block. Be sure you're registered to bid if you want a shot at taking home this 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 convertible. And to see more of this rare, muscle-car drop-top, check out the video below.
