Oldsmobile Cutlass (1st generation)
The upscale compact that pioneered the all-aluminium American V8.
- Power
- 185 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.0 s
- Top speed
- 115 mph
- Est. value
- $10k–$35k
About the Oldsmobile Cutlass
Introduced as the premium trim for the F-85 'senior compact', the 1962 Cutlass featured the innovative 'Rockette' 215 cubic-inch V8. This all-aluminium engine was remarkably light for the era, weighing just 159 kg, and would later gain fame as the basis for the Rover V8. The Cutlass trim added bucket seats and a more luxurious interior to the Y-body platform shared with Buick and Pontiac. While praised for its power-to-weight ratio, period testers noted its soft, comfort-oriented suspension and slow steering, typical of early 1960s American luxury compacts.
Oldsmobile Cutlass specs
The Oldsmobile Cutlass produces 185 bhp (138 kW) and 312 Nm (230 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.0 seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h).
| Make | Oldsmobile |
|---|---|
| Model | Cutlass |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 3.5 V8 |
| Years | 1961–1963 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 94,568 built |
| Original price | About $2,700 when new |
| Engine | 3.5-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,531 cc (3.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 185 bhp (138 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 312 Nm (230 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.0 s |
| Top speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,270 kg (2,800 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 146 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 $10,000 – $35,000 (about £7,500 – £26,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,700.
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 an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 35 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 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's 215 V8 was so light that it was later used as the basis for the Repco engine that powered Jack Brabham to the 1966 Formula One World Championship.
- General Motors sold the tooling for this engine to the Rover Group in 1965, where it remained in production for nearly 40 years.
- The 1962 model year saw the introduction of the Cutlass convertible, which quickly became one of the most desirable variants of the F-85 line.
