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1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon: A Forgotten Classic

The 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon often stands as an underappreciated gem in the automotive world. Born from the assembly lines of General Motors, this vehicle emerged during a time of transition for the American auto industry, facing down challenges like the oil crisis and evolving consumer tastes. As part of the Cutlass lineup, which was among the best-selling car models during the 1970s, the Salon variant offered a unique blend of comfort and style that was distinct from its siblings. One particularly intriguing fact about this model is that it introduced the aeroback sedan body style, which was a bold departure from traditional design norms of that era.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the '78 Cutlass Salon was a conversation starter, featuring a fastback-like profile that set it apart from other more conventional sedans of its time. The interior was no less impressive, with an emphasis on spaciousness and comfort. High-quality fabrics and materials adorned its cabin, providing a sense of luxury that belied its mid-size classification. Technologically, the Salon was equipped with features that were quite advanced for its day, including optional power windows and locks. Color options for the '78 Salon ranged from classic whites and blacks to more vibrant hues like reds and blues. Among these, shades such as Carmine Red and Colonial Yellow were particularly popular with buyers. The car came in various body styles including coupes, sedans, and station wagons; however, it was the aeroback sedan that truly captured attention for its distinctive look.

Historical Significance

The Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It challenged conventional aesthetics with its aeroback design—a precursor to the more aerodynamic shapes that would become prevalent in the 1980s. This bold move set it apart from contemporaries and left a lasting mark on automotive design language.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the '78 Cutlass Salon offered respectable performance for its class. Equipped with a range of engines including the base V6 to a more powerful V8 option, it could achieve 0-60 mph times that were competitive at the time. Top speeds varied by engine choice but were generally in line with other mid-size sedans of the era. Handling was where the Cutlass Salon truly shone. Its chassis provided a smooth ride over bumps while maintaining composure on windy roads. Drivers often praised the balance between comfort and responsiveness, accompanied by the satisfying rumble of its American-made engines.

Ownership Experience

The 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon found its niche among those seeking a daily driver with flair or an entry-level show car. It proved reliable enough for regular use while also being relatively straightforward to maintain and repair—important factors for any owner not wanting to be constantly under the hood or facing hefty mechanic bills.

Fun Facts

This classic has had its share of spotlight moments including rare editions like the Hurst/Olds version with its signature dual-gate shifter setup. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set sales records during its heyday. Criticisms often centered around its polarizing aeroback design which some felt compromised trunk space and overall aesthetics.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon can fetch varying prices depending on condition, mileage, and originality—ranging anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 or more for pristine examples. While production numbers were high for Cutlass models in general, finding an aeroback in excellent condition can be challenging due to their niche appeal. Price trends have shown appreciation over time as enthusiasts seek out these unique pieces of automotive history. Rarity varies by model trim and engine choice—with higher performance versions being more sought after by collectors.

Conclusion

The 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon stands as a testament to an era when automakers weren't afraid to experiment with design and innovation. Its unique place in automotive history is secured not just by sales figures but also by its daring approach to car design—a legacy that continues to fascinate collectors and classic car aficionados alike.

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 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

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 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.

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon T-top Side Seals. Each piece 25" long. Pair-ELP 5020T-top Side Seals. Each piece 25" long. Pair

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Trunk Seal (Imported). Made with steel cores-IS-MW00101Trunk Seal (Imported). Made with steel cores. 1-3/8" X 3/4" X 17'. Each

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Molded Door Seals. 2-Door Coupe-LM 16-JEMolded Door Seals. 2-Door Coupe. Replaces OEM part numbers 20008188/9. Pair. R&L.

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 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.

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 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.

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 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.

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 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.

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Basic kit. ’78-’80 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 2-door coupe-RKB 1900-106Basic kit. '78-'80 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 2-door coupe. Door (LM 16-JE), roof-rail (RR 5020) and trunk (MW00101) seals. 5-piece set.

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-EBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861. 5" X 2-1/2". Each

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Molded roof-rail seals. 2-door hardtop-RR 5020Molded roof-rail seals. 2-door hardtop. Replaces OEM#'s 20154101/2. Pair. R&L.

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Glove Box Bumper. Each-SB 78-AGlove Box Bumper. Each

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 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

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Rear Quarter Window Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 204Rear Quarter Window Molding Clip. Made of steel. 3/4" x 1-3/8". Each

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel-WF 205Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel. 1-3/8" X 11/16". Each

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1"-WF 209Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1". Each

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 211Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 15/16" X 3/4". Each

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon 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