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Unveiling the 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme: A Timeless American Classic

The 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme stands as a testament to an era when automotive design was as much about art as it was about engineering. Born from the assembly lines of General Motors, this vehicle emerged during a time of transition for the American auto industry, facing challenges from fuel crises and foreign competition. Despite these hurdles, the Cutlass Supreme carved out its place in history, becoming one of the best-selling cars in America during the early '80s. Its blend of style, comfort, and affordability captured the hearts of many and secured its legacy in the pantheon of classic American cars.

Design and Innovation: A Blend of Elegance and Practicality

With its distinctive long hood and short deck profile, the 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme exuded elegance and strength. The vehicle's exterior styling featured clean lines that flowed seamlessly from front to rear, accented by chrome trimmings that highlighted its luxurious appeal. Inside, passengers were greeted with a cabin that prioritized comfort and sophistication. High-quality fabrics and materials adorned the seats and panels, providing a plush environment for both driver and passengers. Technologically, the Cutlass Supreme was equipped with features that were quite advanced for its time, such as optional power windows and locks, air conditioning, and even a stereo cassette player. Color options ranged from understated classics like Ebony Black to more vibrant choices like Autumn Maple Firemist, with the latter often catching eyes on the road. Body styles included a two-door coupe, four-door sedan, and a station wagon variant. However, it was the two-door coupe that became iconic, often associated with the quintessential American muscle car image.

Historical Significance: More Than Just a Car

The 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme didn't just represent personal transportation; it was a cultural icon that reflected American values of freedom and progress. It set itself apart from contemporaries with its unique combination of luxury features at an accessible price point. Its popularity helped cement Oldsmobile's reputation for producing reliable family cars that didn't skimp on style or performance.

Performance and Handling: A Smooth Operator

Underneath its stylish exterior lay a capable powertrain. The standard engine was a 3.8-liter V6 that provided adequate power for daily driving. For those seeking more thrill, there was an optional 5.0-liter V8 engine that pushed performance further with higher top speed and quicker acceleration—going from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds. Handling was smooth and comfortable, absorbing bumps with ease while maintaining composure on windy roads. Driving the Cutlass Supreme was an auditory pleasure too; the V8's rumble was music to any car enthusiast's ears.

Ownership Experience: Versatility on Wheels

The 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme served various roles—from being a reliable daily driver to gracing car shows as a cherished classic. Its mechanical simplicity meant maintenance was straightforward for most owners, contributing to its reputation for reliability. However, like any vehicle of its age, certain parts may now be harder to find or replace due to discontinuation.

Fun Facts: The Cutlass Supreme's Legacy

This model has seen its fair share of limelight with appearances in movies and television shows of its era. Rare editions like the Brougham or Hurst/Olds versions are particularly sought after by collectors today. While not known for breaking speed records, it certainly set sales records during its heyday.

Collector's Information: A Prized Possession

Today, an original 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme can fetch anywhere from $5,000 to over $20,000 depending on condition, mileage, and originality—with well-preserved or restored models commanding higher prices. It is estimated that hundreds of thousands were produced during this model year alone; however exact figures are elusive. The market trend shows appreciation for well-maintained examples as they become rarer over time.

Conclusion: Celebrating Automotive Heritage

The 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme remains an emblematic figure in automotive history—a symbol of resilience during changing times. It is more than just a mode of transportation; it is a cherished collectible that continues to evoke nostalgia and admiration among classic car enthusiasts around the world.

1981 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.

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme T-top Side Seals. Each piece 25" long. Pair-ELP 5020T-top Side Seals. Each piece 25" long. Pair

1981 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

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Trunk Seal (Imported). Made with steel cores-IS-MW00101Trunk Seal (Imported). Made with steel cores. 1-3/8" X 3/4" X 17'. Each

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Molded Door Seals. 2-door coupe-LM 16-JRMolded Door Seals. 2-door coupe. Replaces OEM part numbers 20201220/1. Pair. R&L.

1981 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.

1981 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.

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Rear molded door seals-LM 16-S/RRear molded door seals. Fits 4-door sedan only (except Ciera). Replaces OEM#'s 20008190/1. Pair. R&L.

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Rear molded door seals. Fits 4-door wagon only, with RWD-LM 16-S/WRear molded door seals. Fits 4-door wagon only, with RWD. Pair. R&L.

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Trunk seal-MW00101Trunk seal. Also replaces '75-'79 Buick Skylark hatchback seal. Made with steel cores. 1-3/8 in. x 3/4 in. x 17 ft. L. Each.

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Basic kit-RKB 1900-107Basic kit. '81-'88 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, '81-'84 Cutlass Calais, '85-'87 Cutlass Salon 2-door coupe. Door (LM 16-JR), roof-rail (RR 5020-M) and trunk (MW00101) seals. 5-piece set.

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Basic kit-RKB 1900-117Basic kit. '81-'87 Buick Regal, '81-'88 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme 2-door coupes with T-top roof option. Door (LM 16-JR), T-top main body (TP 5020), T-top side panels (ELP 5020) and trunk (MW00101) seals. 7-piece set.

1981 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

1981 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

1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Glove Box Bumper. Each-SB 78-AGlove Box Bumper. Each

1981 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

1981 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

1981 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