Last week I came across a '71 442 (W-30) Holiday Coupe. The car has been modified with a big stereo, 22" rims and non-original paint. Any idea of the approximate value or vin information that could validate this find. While the car is not wrecked or rusted, it will take some work to return it to original glory. Thanks!

 

Most found W-30's were not that way when they left the factory these days. Best validation would be build sheet. Then look for original parts such as red plastic wheelwells, trans codes, head codes, intake manifold, lansing build, etc. Homework needs to be done.

 

A Lansing build is indicated by an 'M' in the vin, correct?

 

Yes + "LAN" in the cowl tag. Both indicate Lansing built.

And look under the carpet edges at the door sills, under/inside the seatbacks and bottoms for a BROADCAST CARD. Way more likely to find these than a build sheet. Broadcast cards are approx the size of those old IBM computer punch cards...maybe 7-8" wide and 3-4" tall. Thicker, cream colored paper.

Don't even think of buying this car and not posting pics of the find when you get it!!!!!

 

I plan to go check the vin in the next couple days to see if the numbers match up. The vin should begin with 344371M if my research is correct.
The engine is currently torn down to the block due to a bad cam, but I did spot an aluminum intake nearby. Now if it only has 'H' heads...

 

The VIN will only tell you that the car is a 442. The W-30 package was not indicated in the VIN until the 1972 model year. All W-30s were built in Lansing, but so were many more non-W-30 442s. By the way, you have a typo. A true Lansing built 1971 442 Holiday Coupe will have a VIN that starts 344871MXXXXXX.

 

Thanks for the correction, I'll be sure to check the vin carefully. Any idea what the value could be as I described it so far?

 

$3000 if it's a 442. $30,000 if it's a documented W30 needing restoration. Without the broadcast card or original window sticker you don't have any proof it's a W30 even if it has all the right parts. I know a guy that has a 70 W30 4 speed convertible he's had since 1978 but without the paperwork it's not a crazy money car

 

I doubt you could get anywhere close to the $30k number for a "needs resto" hardtop W-30 with documents right now. Maybe half of that or a little more if it needs everything done to it. Just my thoughts on values in today's market.