I've been watching a 1970 Cutlass 442 listed and owner states it's a Real 442. How can I be sure it's real? Owner does not have a build sheet or any other documentation stating it's real. He has owned the car for 10 years. The car is not local to me, there aren't any signs suggesting it's not real. I don't have any photos of the Cowl Tag yet & I don't have the VIN number. I will be requesting it and will post when I have it. What do I look for, how do I know for sure it's real? Thanks

 

A 70 442 has a different VIN than a Cutlass. Have the correct VIN, check the engine and transmission for the same VIN derivative, make sure the VIN and cowl tag and the rivets on the cowl tag look original and not messed with, and, if it's all good, that's a numbers matching 442.

I guess clone culture has made being a "Real 442" something special, as opposed to something one assumes when it is listed as such in an ad. One typically does not request a build sheet on a 442 as it is rock solid easy to authenticate it. Broadcast cards are typically requested for Lansing W machines.

 

All you need is the Vin to check,should start 344.

 

And FYI, a 1970 442 is not a Cutlass, since the VINs are different.

 

So a 1970 "442" VIN will start with 344. What would a Non 442 VIN Start with?

 

It depends on the model. Put a 3 in front of the Sales Code to get the first five characters of the VIN.

 

Depends on the model. All Oldsmobiles start with 3 because that means Oldsmobile.

Below is the model designation chart from the 1970 chassis service manual.

F-85s start with 331 or 332, depending on the engine.
Cutlasses start with 335 or 336
Supremes start with 342

Etc.

 

Thank you everyone who responded. I should have the VIN & Cowl Tag Numbers today.

 

Post pics of both tags one of us will decipher them for you.

What is your intent with the purchase? Turn key driver, restoration etc...

We all know where the trouble areas are on these A body cars. We are well versed on what to pay attention too if your shelling out serious coin for a condition 1 car.
We can help on general ballpark pricing for each level of car, Ex: survivor, restored car, disassembled project, parts car et al.
Steve

 

Thank you Steve - The seller didn't send photos today but as soon as they do, I'll post them here. It's turnkey from what I've gathered so far. I've only just begun dialog with the seller, so information is very limited. All original 1970 442 is about all I can tell you at this point. Shows very low mileage but not sure if true. I'll provide more info as I get it. Thanks again.