The allure of classic cars often evokes images of chrome-laden behemoths from the 50s or the muscle car era of the 60s. But what about 70s Cars? Are they considered classics, or are they simply aging vehicles from a bygone era? Having recently sold my own 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 4-4-2, purchased brand new back in ’78, this question is something I’ve pondered quite a bit. Like many, I was advised to hold onto it, with the expectation that it would eventually become a “classic.”
By the late 1970s, the 4-4-2 designation on my Oldsmobile was essentially a trim package, a far cry from its muscle car origins. Under the hood was a modest 260 cubic inch V-8 engine paired with an automatic transmission. When I started looking into its potential value, the reality set in: it wasn’t destined to be a highly sought-after classic. Restoring it to its former glory would have required a significant investment, easily exceeding $10,000, only to potentially end up with a car worth less than that. While not many of these particular models with the 4-4-2 trim were produced, rarity alone doesn’t guarantee classic status. It did serve me well as reliable transportation for 240,000 miles, a testament to its build quality in its own right.
My experience with a 1977 acquisition, a 1948 Dodge sedan, further illustrates the complexities of classic car ownership. My initial intention was restoration. I managed to get the engine running smoothly, a promising start. However, the daunting reality of extensive bodywork costs quickly became apparent. Having bought the Dodge for a mere $600, twelve years later, I was offered $700 by someone who clearly saw potential where I saw a money pit. He happily drove my Dodge away, a testament to the subjective nature of car value and classic appeal.
A friend of mine, deeply involved in buying and selling collector cars, offered an interesting perspective. He believes the key to success in this market is to target the cars that individuals in their 40s to 60s would have considered desirable during their teenage years. Nostalgia plays a huge role in the classic car market.
To test this theory, I recall another friend who purchased a beautifully restored 1957 Chevrolet Bel-Air hardtop, complete with a V-8 engine and a three-speed manual transmission. He brought it over for me to experience firsthand. As a teenager, this car would have been the ultimate dream machine. However, as an “old geezer,” as I now consider myself, the car simply didn’t have the same impact. The appeal of a classic car is often deeply rooted in personal memories and youthful aspirations.
Even my wife’s 1974 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, equipped with a thirsty 400 cubic inch V-8, brings back memories of a different era. Despite some bodywork to address rust, it was clear the relentless march of corrosion would continue. While it was a stylish car in its day, it’s not something I would consider practical or desirable as a daily driver today. Fuel economy, emissions, and modern safety standards are just a few factors that make 70s cars, while potentially cool, less appealing for everyday use compared to contemporary vehicles.
In conclusion, while some 70s cars undoubtedly hold a special place in automotive history and the hearts of enthusiasts, not every car from that decade automatically qualifies as a “classic” in the investment or broad appeal sense. The definition of a classic car is often subjective and heavily influenced by nostalgia, personal experiences, and evolving market trends. While my 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass provided years of reliable service and holds personal value, its journey into “classic” status was, ultimately, a road not taken.
