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1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme: A Quintessential American Classic

The 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme stands as a testament to the era of bold design and automotive innovation. Born from the assembly lines of General Motors, this vehicle not only captured the essence of late 70s style but also became one of the best-selling cars in America during its time. Its popularity was so immense that it helped define a generation of personal luxury coupes, making it a significant piece of automotive history. A notable moment in its timeline was when it became the pace car for the Indianapolis 500 in 1977, cementing its place in the annals of motor racing.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the Cutlass Supreme boasted a classic American coupe silhouette with a long hood, short deck, and distinctive lines that exuded both elegance and muscle. The chrome grilles and quad headlamps were complemented by an array of color options, with shades like Carmine Red and Colonial Yellow being among the popular choices. Inside, passengers were greeted with plush seating and woodgrain accents that spoke volumes about the quality of materials used at the time. Technologically, it featured advancements such as optional power windows and locks, which were considered high-end conveniences back then. The most iconic body style was arguably the two-door coupe, but buyers also had options for sedans and station wagons.

Historical Significance

The Cutlass Supreme's impact on automotive design was profound. It set a benchmark for personal luxury coupes with its blend of performance, comfort, and style. This model stood out from its contemporaries with features like the swiveling bucket seats and Hurst/Olds performance packages, which added to its allure and desirability among enthusiasts.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the '79 Cutlass Supreme came with various engine options, including a V6 for those seeking efficiency and V8s for more power-hungry drivers. The top-tier V8 could propel the car from 0-60 mph in under 8 seconds—a commendable feat at the time. Handling-wise, it provided a smooth ride quality that absorbed road imperfections well while maintaining composure on winding roads. Drivers often praised the throaty rumble of the V8 engine as part of the visceral driving experience.

Ownership Experience

As versatile as it was stylish, the Cutlass Supreme served many roles—from a reliable daily driver to a weekend show car or even an amateur race vehicle. Maintenance was relatively straightforward due to its common platform and parts availability, making it an accessible classic for many enthusiasts.

Fun Facts

The 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme had its share of quirks and accolades. It was one of NASCAR's favorite stock cars during its heyday, and several special editions—like the Hurst/Olds W-30—were highly sought after by collectors. While critics sometimes pointed out its less-than-stellar fuel economy compared to smaller compacts, fans adored its American charm and robust build.

Collector's Information

Today, values for a well-maintained 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme can vary widely based on condition, mileage, and originality. While production numbers were high—with hundreds of thousands rolling off assembly lines—finding one in pristine condition can be challenging. Prices can range anywhere from $5,000 for a model in fair condition to upwards of $20,000 or more for show-quality examples or rare editions.

Conclusion

The 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme is more than just a car; it's a slice of Americana that continues to resonate with collectors and classic car enthusiasts alike. Its combination of style, performance, and comfort captures the spirit of an era when cars were not just modes of transportation but statements on wheels. As we look back on this classic coupe's storied past, we're reminded why it remains an enduring symbol of automotive excellence.

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Hood and cowl seal-CS 13-GHood and cowl seal. Fits '78-'88 GM A-body, A-Special (A-SPEC) and G-body 2-door hardtop coupes with rear wheel drive (RWD). Dual-durometer extrusion with flexible metal core. Easy to install; fits over pinchweld. Replaces OEM# 20255857 and 25505704. Made in the USA. Each.

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme T-top Side Seals. Each piece 25" long. Pair-ELP 5020T-top Side Seals. Each piece 25" long. Pair

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Auxiliary T-Top Sealing Strips-ELP 5020-BAuxiliary T-Top Sealing Strips. For models with factory t-top option. 51" in length per side, adhesive tape backing. Replaces OEM #20139617. Pair

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Molded Door Seals. 2-Door Coupe-LM 16-JEMolded Door Seals. 2-Door Coupe. Replaces OEM part numbers 20008188/9. Pair. R&L.

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Lower Door Sill Seal, 78-88 GM G Body 2 Doors, Pair-LM 16-JSLower Door Sill Seal, 78-88 GM G Body 2 Doors, Pair. Replaces OEM # 20376226. These seals fit in between the panel and the lower part of the doors.

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Front molded door seals. For 4-door sedan and wagon-LM 16-SFront molded door seals. For 4-door sedan and wagon. Replaces OEM#'s 20008186/7. Pair. R&L.

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Basic kit-RKB 1900-115Basic kit. '78-'80 Regal, Cutlass Supreme 2-door coupe with T-top roof option. Door (LM 16-JE), T-top to body (TP 5020), T-top side panels (ELP 5020) and trunk (MW00101) seals. 7-piece set.

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Basic kit-RKB 1900-121Basic kit. '78-'80 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme and Cutlass Calais 2-door coupe. Door (LM 16-JE), roof-rail (RR 5020-M) and trunk (MW00101) seals. 5-piece set.

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-EBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861. 5" X 2-1/2". Each

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Molded Roof Rail Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop. Pair R&L-RR 5020-MMolded Roof Rail Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop. Pair R&L

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Glove Box Bumper. Each-SB 78-AGlove Box Bumper. Each

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme T-Top to Body Seals. Fits models with factory T-top option-TP 5020T-Top to Body Seals. Fits models with factory T-top option. Replaces OEM #20211820/20211821. For matching T-Top Side Rail Seals, see ELP 5020. Pair

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Rear Quarter Window Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 204Rear Quarter Window Molding Clip. Made of steel. 3/4" x 1-3/8". Each

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel-WF 205Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel. 1-3/8" X 11/16". Each

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1"-WF 209Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1". Each

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 211Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 15/16" X 3/4". Each

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon-WF 214Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon. 1-1/4" x 3/4". Each