Jolly Green

Ok, so here is the skinny. I bought a 68 Olds 442 a few years ago and am restoring it now. I found a nice 1970 Skylark for my little brother who wanted to build a GSX clone. I was just reading Hemmings Muscle Machine and they did a drive of a GSX and they kept lauding how the GSX handled saying it was the best car of 1970 blah blah blah. I thought Olds' were known for their handling and I was curious if anyone has had any experience and also, what makes the GSX handle so well? Seemed like the swaybars, etc were the same size as the Olds'. Basically, I can't let my lil bro beat me and I want to know what it'll take to whip his @$$
I am going to be rocking with a 68 455 myself if that helps.

LoganMiller68

Although a 70's GSX is a nice car and all, I think your 442 with a 455 will stomp all over him.

Although, I am a little biased seeing as how I have a 68 442

GAOldsman

I'll chime in and say that it would depend on the type of race and of course the driver.

The '70 GS Stage 1 put out 360 bhp and ran 13.8 sec 1/4 mile @ 101 mph. The '70 4-4-2 W-30 put out 370 bhp and ran 13.7 sec 1/4 mile on a fresh tune prior to Car and Driver Magazine only squeezing 14.2 sec in the quarter @ 102 mph. So it really depends on driver for this race.

Now if was on a road course, I'd have to say hands down the 4-4-2 would take the checkered flag every time.

2blu442

Jolly! Welcome Back! I haven't seen you post for a while so I hope all is well.

John

Rickman48

If you're after handling - throw in a set of urethane sway bar bushings and link bushings.
You'll run circles around him.

Jolly Green

Well, I am thinking about finishing the rebuild then seeing how it handles and if I want more, then going for a Hotchkis TVS for the car. I want it to be fun to drive around in but be able to perform as well. I am not looking to do serious competing or anything but I would like to have something nice, especially when instead of going out and just buying a new car, I am spending all that money ont his one, haha. Would like some modern handling with old school styling.
Good to be back Blu! I have been deploying and moving, etc. Still got that motor I bought off you, going to go to the shop soon I hope. Getting the pieces together to restore the frame right now, then bodywork, then drivetrain.