Image of 1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser, sourced from www.curbsideclassic.com , Image Link.

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser: A Forgotten Giant in Wagon History

The 1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser stands as a testament to the era when full-size station wagons ruled the highways of America. Born from the assembly lines of Oldsmobile, a division of General Motors known for its engineering prowess and innovation, this vehicle was more than just a means of transportation; it was a symbol of family adventure and suburban prestige. In an age where station wagons were the go-to choice for family haulers, the Custom Cruiser offered a unique blend of luxury, space, and power that set it apart. Notably, it was among the first station wagons to offer a forward-facing third-row seat, revolutionizing passenger comfort.

Design and Innovation

The 1971 Custom Cruiser's exterior styling was characterized by its long, sweeping lines and prominent chrome grille that commanded attention on the road. The wagon's design echoed the opulence of the time with its faux wood paneling adorning the sides, giving it that quintessential '70s look. Inside, passengers were greeted with a spacious and comfortable cabin, where plush seating and high-quality materials were standard. Technological features such as power windows and air conditioning were considered advanced for its time, catering to a more discerning clientele. The color palette ranged from classic Antique Pewter to vibrant Saturn Gold, with the darker hues often favored for their luxurious appeal. Among body styles, the three-seat version with its clamshell tailgate was particularly iconic.

Historical Significance

The Custom Cruiser's introduction came at a time when Oldsmobile was pushing boundaries in automotive design and technology. It stood out for its unique tailgate design – a complex mechanism that allowed for easier loading – which became an Oldsmobile hallmark. This innovation not only set new standards for convenience but also showcased Oldsmobile's commitment to practicality without sacrificing style.

Performance and Handling

Underneath the hood lay a powerful Rocket 455 cubic-inch V8 engine that propelled this hefty wagon with surprising agility. With top speeds that could reach well over 100 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds, it was no slouch on the road. The Custom Cruiser handled daily driving duties with ease; its soft suspension absorbed bumps commendably while providing a quiet and smooth ride. Drivers often praised the throaty rumble of the V8 engine – a sound that evoked power and reliability.

Ownership Experience

As versatile as it was elegant, the Custom Cruiser served many roles – from daily commuting to cross-country travel. Owners found maintenance relatively straightforward due to GM's widespread parts availability and shared components with other GM models. However, as with many vehicles of its size and era, fuel efficiency was not one of its strong suits.

Fun Facts

This classic wagon has had its share of limelight; rare editions included special trim packages that are highly sought after today. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set a standard for luxury wagons of its time. Despite criticisms over its size in an increasingly fuel-conscious market, it maintained a loyal following.

Collector's Information

Today, finding a 1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser in pristine condition can be quite a challenge; production numbers were not as high as some other models of the time. Estimates suggest that fewer than 15,000 units were produced. As for value range, well-preserved examples can fetch anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 depending on originality and condition – reflecting an appreciation in value as nostalgia for classic wagons grows.

Conclusion

The 1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser is more than just an old station wagon; it's a piece of American automotive history that represents innovation, luxury, and practicality all rolled into one stylish package. Its legacy continues to resonate with collectors who appreciate its unique place in the pantheon of classic cars.

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Body Cushion Kit. 28 piece set.-BCK 5Body Cushion Kit. 28 piece set.

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser 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

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit-BNK 21Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit. 22-piece set for two stabilizer bars. Contains all rubber bushings, washers, bolts and nuts, enough for one front end. Set

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Front Molded Door Seals-LM 16-GFront Molded Door Seals. For 4-door sedan and wagon, with RWD. Each is 138-1/2" long. Pair R&L

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Rear Molded Door Seals. For 4-door wagon only, with RWD-LM 16-G/WRear Molded Door Seals. For 4-door wagon only, with RWD. Each is 127-1/2" long. Pair R&L

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Trunk Liner. Loose weave-M 23Trunk Liner. Loose weave. Black with scattered white threads. 54" wide. Sold by the foot

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-EBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861. 5" X 2-1/2". Each

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Oil Filler Hole Cap. Made of rubber-RP 8Oil Filler Hole Cap. Made of rubber. Fits a 1-3/16" to 1-1/4" hole. Each

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Seat Bumper. Made with steel core like original-SB 62-ASeat Bumper. Made with steel core like original. 1-1/2" long, 7/16" thick. Two used per car. Each

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Front door window stop bumper. ’70-’81 GM passenger cars-SB 70-AFront door window stop bumper. '70-'81 GM passenger cars. Dense rubber. Replaces OEM# 9810036. Each.

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Fuel Door Bumper. 7/8" high, 5/16" O.D. Each-SB 81Fuel Door Bumper. 7/8" high, 5/16" O.D. Each

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Dash and Firewall Grommet. Single-hole type is for one wire-SM 101Dash and Firewall Grommet. Single-hole type is for one wire. Each

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser 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

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel-WF 205Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel. 1-3/8" X 11/16". Each

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Rear Window Reveal Molding Clip. For Station Wagons-WF 208Rear Window Reveal Molding Clip. For Station Wagons. Made of steel. 5/8" x 3/4". Each

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 211Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 15/16" X 3/4". Each

1971 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 223Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 1/1/8" X 3/4". Each