The 1969 442 didn’t bring significant styling changes from the previous year, albeit the new model sported a new grille design and hood scoops.
The 455 V8 made its way to only 914 cars wearing the special emblems, producing 380 horsepower (less than on the 1968 model year cars).
The 442 in these photos rolled off the assembly lines as a two-door Holiday Coupe, so it doesn’t sport the desirable Hurst/Olds package, but it’s not as if this was its biggest problem.
It’s a massive project, and whoever buys the car for restoration will spend much time not only fixing the obvious problems but also finding the missing parts. The car has likely become a donor for another project, so putting this Olds back on its wheel is going to be a challenge. Above all, it’ll cost a lot of money, so people interested in the car should inspect everything in person before committing to a purchase.
The 442 was found in a barn in Oklahoma, but eBay seller Tactical Scorpion Gear doesn’t share additional details. That’s a shame, as a barn find would make for an even more intriguing restoration candidate, especially if the car spent more than a few years locked down in someone’s building. However, it’s very clear the storage conditions weren’t right for a pile of metal, as the rust has already invaded the floor pans.
The seller claims the rear quarters don’t exhibit such damage, but your best option is to see the car in person or order a third-party inspection to determine the metal damage this 442 already suffered.
Unfortunately, the 442 has only bad news under the hood. The original engine is no longer in the car (albeit this isn’t the only missing bit, considering the vehicle has likely served as a donor), so you’ll need to find a new block. The seller claims they also have 400 and 455 blocks if you’re interested in a “more complete” package, but you’ll have to pay extra.
Speaking of paying, the selling price could be a major problem for this 442, as the owner doesn’t seem to be willing to let it go cheaply. The auction starts at $3,500, but they also configured a reserve, meaning the selling price is higher. Nobody has entered the race to buy the 442 so far, but considering the digital fight started only a few hours ago, fingers crossed that someone sees the car and gives it a try.
The 442 is parked in Goldsboro, North Carolina.
