Oldsmobile Cutlass (5th generation)
The best-selling car in America during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
- Power
- 155 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.5 s
- Top speed
- 109 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$26k
About the Oldsmobile Cutlass
The fifth-generation Oldsmobile Cutlass, particularly in the 'Supreme' coupé trim, was a dominant force in the American market due to its blend of formal styling and manageable downsized dimensions. For 1980, the model received a facelift featuring a more aerodynamic nose and quad headlights, maintaining its position as a luxury-oriented personal cruiser. The 5.0-litre (307 cu in) V8 offered smooth, torque-rich delivery typical of the era, though it was tuned more for cruising efficiency than outright muscle. Today, these cars are appreciated as accessible entry-points into the classic American car hobby, valued for their plush 'Velour' interiors and smooth ride quality.
Oldsmobile Cutlass specs
The Oldsmobile Cutlass produces 155 bhp (116 kW) and 325 Nm (240 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 109 mph (175 km/h).
| Make | Oldsmobile |
|---|---|
| Model | Cutlass |
| Generation | Fifth Generation (5th generation) |
| Trim | 5.0 V8 |
| Years | 1978–1988 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $6,500 when new |
| Engine | 5.0-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,033 cc (5.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 155 bhp (116 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 325 Nm (240 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.5 s |
| Top speed | 109 mph (175 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,520 kg (3,351 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 102 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Oldsmobile Cutlass worth?
A typical Oldsmobile Cutlass is estimated to be worth $7,000 – $26,000 (about £5,200 – £19,000).
Its original price when new was about $6,500.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Oldsmobile Cutlass rarity in CarSpot
The Oldsmobile Cutlass is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 15 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Oldsmobile Cutlass fun facts
- The Cutlass was so popular that in 1980 it helped Oldsmobile become the first domestic brand outside of Chevrolet or Ford to produce over one million cars in a single year.
- The 307 cubic-inch V8 introduced for the 1980 model year became a staple of GM's line-up, remaining in production until 1990.
- Despite the fuel crises of the era, the Cutlass Supreme remained the most popular body style, often outselling the more practical sedan and wagon variants.
