Adding Modern Performance And Handling To A Classic Envelope
This cool yellow 1968 Oldsmobile 442 looks great, but the owner wanted better handling, braking, and comfort, while adding more reliable power and a smoother shifting transmission to the car without sacrificing the classic look. The solution is the installation of at Roadster Shop chassis and a 530 HP Blueprint Engineering LS3 V8, hooked to a Tremec TKX 5-speed manual transmission.
Restoring As Needed
This 1968 Oldsmobile 442 had been restored once, but we discovered some areas needing attention. We replaced the rusty dashboard and performed some floor pan repairs during the process. The goal was to perform the required tasks without re-restoring the entire car.
Upgrades With Drivability In Mind
The foundation is a Roadster Shop chassis, which is not only stiffer than the original GM chassis, but it also incorporates improved suspension geometry, stroger parts, and spring, shock, and steering technology over 50 years more advanced than the 1968 design. The end result is a car that drives phenomenally well while not losing the original 442 appearance. Foose Design wheels provide a modern interpretation of the original 442 Super Stock II wheels wrapped with Nitto tires.
LS3 + TKX = Way More Fun!
The 530 HP all-aluminum Blueprint Engineering LS3 V8 engine provides modern and reliable power while saving weight and eliminating old-design leaks. A Tremec TKX 5-speed transmission from Modern Driveline is able to handle over 600 ft-lbs of torque and adds an overdrive 5th gear, all while capable of 7500+ RPM shifts. It is geared to match the rear axle ratio and power curve of the engine, so the hydraulically-clutched 5-speed adds to the fun while being easy to drive. A Magnaflow exhaust provides just enough rumble at idle, with comfortable sound levels cruising down the road.
Enjoying The Drive
Inside, we’ve upfitted this 1968 442 with Dakota Digital gauges in the dash, along with a Vintage Air A/C system to keep things cool. The Modern Driveline hydraulic clutch works easily and smooth, but still grabs tightly. We found this car to be very comfortable and quiet going down the road, until you mash the throttle and wake up the 530 horsepower LS3!
Follow The Build
The photos tell the story of how the V8 Speed and Resto Shop team transformed this Olds into a road car that the driver can enjoy all day long. Our team is very experienced in building these type of Pro-Touring Muscle Cars for those who put the emphasis on driving performance. What can we build for you? Contact the V8 Speed and Resto Shop today to chat about your dream classic, Hot Rod, or Muscle Car!
