Image of 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser, sourced from www.hagerty.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser

When the open road beckons, few vehicles answer the call quite like the 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser. This station wagon, a true embodiment of American automotive culture, hails from an era where practicality and style drove side by side. Produced by Oldsmobile, a division of General Motors, this model was part of a lineage that boasted reliability and comfort. Its historical significance lies in its role as a bridge between the traditional station wagons of the past and the emerging preference for minivans and SUVs.

A unique fact that car enthusiasts may find captivating is that the Cutlass Cruiser was among the last rear-wheel-drive station wagons offered by Oldsmobile before the brand transitioned to front-wheel-drive platforms in the late 1980s.

Design and Innovation

The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser's exterior styling was characterized by its boxy silhouette, chrome accents, and distinctive grille that echoed Oldsmobile's design language of the time. Inside, passengers were greeted with plush seating and woodgrain paneling that exuded a sense of classic comfort. The quality of materials reflected the era's standards, with durable fabrics and hard-wearing plastics.

Technologically, it offered features such as power windows and locks, which were considered advanced for station wagons at that time. Color options ranged from conservative hues like silver and blue to bolder choices such as burgundy, with the latter often catching the eye of nostalgic collectors today.

The most iconic body style for the Cutlass Cruiser was undoubtedly its traditional station wagon form with faux-wood paneling on the sides, which became synonymous with family road trips and suburban life in America.

Historical Significance

The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser made its mark by offering a blend of utility and comfort without compromising on style. It stood out from its contemporaries with its rear-wheel-drive layout, which was becoming increasingly rare in wagons at that time. Its lasting influence can be seen in how it helped set expectations for what a family vehicle could offer in terms of space and features.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood lay a V6 engine capable of delivering adequate power for both city driving and highway cruising. While top speed and acceleration figures were modest by today's standards (0-60 mph times were not sports-car brisk), they were sufficient for the vehicle's intended use. The ride quality was smooth, absorbing bumps with ease while providing a quiet cabin experience. Steering was typically light, making it easy to navigate through parking lots despite its size.

The driving experience was characterized by a sense of solidity; from the reassuring sound of the engine to the comfortable suspension setup, it was clear that this vehicle was built for long-haul comfort rather than speed.

Ownership Experience

The Cutlass Cruiser found its place as a daily driver for families, but also gained popularity among car enthusiasts who appreciated its classic design for show purposes. Its reliability was one of its strong suits, with many components being easy to repair or replace by the average owner.

Fun Facts

This wagon has had its share of screen time in films and television series set in the '80s and '90s, adding to its nostalgic appeal. While not known for breaking speed records, it has certainly held records in many family photo albums for hauling kids, pets, and cargo on countless adventures.

Criticisms at the time focused on its size and fuel efficiency compared to smaller cars or more modern minivans; however, these are often overlooked today by those seeking an authentic classic wagon experience.

Collector's Information

The current value range for an 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser can vary widely depending on condition, mileage, and originality. With production numbers not being exceptionally low but considering attrition over time, it's reasonable to estimate that these vehicles are moderately rare on today's market.

In terms of appreciation potential, well-preserved examples have seen a steady increase in value as they appeal to collectors looking for an authentic '80s experience. Prices can range anywhere from a few thousand dollars for models in fair condition to upwards of $15,000 or more for pristine examples.

Conclusion

The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser stands as a testament to an era when station wagons ruled suburban driveways across America. With its comfortable interior, practical design features, and classic styling cues, it continues to capture the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike. As we look back at this iconic wagon's journey through automotive history, it's clear that it has left an indelible mark on our collective memory – one that is cherished more with each passing year.

1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser 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.