Image of 1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass, sourced from www.streetsideclassics.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass emerged as a beacon of American automotive innovation, encapsulating the spirit of an era poised on the cusp of change. Born from the assembly lines of Oldsmobile, a division of General Motors, this vehicle not only represented the height of early 60s style but also marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of compact luxury cars. The Cutlass was part of the larger F-85 lineup, which was Oldsmobile's foray into the burgeoning compact car market. A unique fact that car enthusiasts might find fascinating is that the '62 Cutlass introduced the first high-compression aluminum V8 engine in a production car, setting a new standard for power-to-weight ratios.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass was a harmonious blend of sleek lines and subtle curves, exuding an understated elegance that was both modern and timeless. The interior featured a level of craftsmanship that spoke to Oldsmobile's commitment to quality, with rich materials and thoughtful details. Technologically, it boasted innovations like the aforementioned aluminum V8 engine, which was both lightweight and powerful. Color options ranged from classic whites and blacks to more vibrant hues like reds and blues, with Saddle Mist being a particularly popular choice among aficionados. The Cutlass was available in various body styles including a two-door coupe, four-door sedan, and a convertible, with the convertible often hailed as the most iconic.

Historical Significance

The 1962 Cutlass played a significant role in redefining what American consumers expected from a compact car. It offered a blend of luxury and performance that was previously unseen in its segment. This model set itself apart with its advanced engineering and stylish design, influencing future generations of vehicles in terms of both aesthetics and mechanical prowess.

Performance and Handling

With its advanced aluminum V8 engine, the 1962 Cutlass had commendable performance figures for its time. It could reach top speeds that were competitive with other sports cars of the era and boasted an acceleration from 0-60 mph that could leave many contemporaries trailing in its wake. On the road, it handled with poise and confidence, absorbing bumps with grace while remaining composed on windy roads. Drivers often praised the visceral experience—the thrumming engine note, responsive steering, and the overall sensation of driving a well-crafted machine.

Ownership Experience

The Cutlass found its niche among those who sought both luxury and practicality—serving dutifully as a daily driver while also being cherished as a show car or weekend cruiser. Its maintenance profile was typical for its time; while reliable overall, certain parts specific to its innovative engine could pose challenges. However, for those passionate about classic cars, owning such an emblematic piece of automotive history outweighed any inconvenience.

Fun Facts

Among classic car enthusiasts, it's well-known that certain '62 Cutlasses were equipped with rare factory options that make them highly coveted today. Although not known for breaking speed records or dominating sales charts at their inception, these vehicles have been owned by notable personalities over time which adds to their allure. Criticisms at launch were few but did include remarks on fuel consumption—a trade-off for its robust performance.

Collector's Information

In today's market, a well-preserved 1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass can fetch quite a sum. While production numbers were not scarce—tens of thousands were made—the survival rate over half a century later is what contributes to their rarity. Values have generally appreciated over time as classic car collectors seek out models in good condition or those with rare options or histories. A ballpark figure for these vehicles can range widely from $15,000 to upwards of $50,000 depending on condition, originality, and provenance.

Conclusion

The 1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass stands as an enduring symbol of early 60s automotive excellence—a testament to innovation and style that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the globe. With its pioneering spirit encapsulated in every curve and chrome detail, this classic American car remains not just a relic of its time but a cherished piece of motoring history.

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high-BN 1Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high., with 7/16" I.D. Each

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Door Side Seal ('64-'66 some models)-C/LP 40-DDoor Side Seal ('64-'66 some models). Smooth skin-covered sponge with clips already installed, 4" apart. For seal without clips, see LP 40-D. Sold by the foot.

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Door Bumper. 1-3/16" high X 5/8" wide X 1" long. Each-DB 33-BDoor Bumper. 1-3/16" high X 5/8" wide X 1" long. Each

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hood to Fender Bumper. Each-HF 42Hood to Fender Bumper. Each

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Trip Meter Reset Knob. Made of black rubber-KN 10Trip Meter Reset Knob. Made of black rubber. Compare to measurements: 1/8" I.D., 7/16" O.D. X 1/2" tall. Each

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Door Side Seal-LP 40-DDoor Side Seal, Without Clips ('64-'66 some models) For seal with clips, see C/LP 40-D. Sold by the foot

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hydro-Electric Power Unit Mounting Cushion-RP 710Hydro-Electric Power Unit Mounting Cushion. For convertibles only. Each

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Trunk Bumper. Fits lower corner on decklid. 15/16" O.D-SB 34Trunk Bumper. Fits lower corner on decklid. 15/16" O.D., 11/16" high. Each

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Door Bumper, 57-74 GM Cars, Made with Twin Retainers, Each-SB 35Door Bumper, 57-74 GM Cars, made with twin retainers, Each. Measure 1-1/16" high X 19/32" wide X 1-1/32" long.

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Glove Box and Fuel Door Bumper. Fits 3/16" hole. Each-SB 78Glove Box and Fuel Door Bumper. Fits 3/16" hole. Each

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Trunk Seal. 18 feet long. Each-TK 46-18Trunk Seal. 18 feet long. Each

1962 Oldsmobile Cutlass Unbeaded Door and Trunk Lock Gasket. 1-3/16" O.D., 7/8" I.D-UM 1600-100Unbeaded Door and Trunk Lock Gasket. 1-3/16" O.D., 7/8" I.D. Each