I am looking for advice on the most effective way to get value from a non- restored, rare 71 Olds Cutlass S Sport Coupe with a 350 V8, 4 Barrel, 4 Speed Standard "Rock Crusher" transmission. It runs well but with a little electrical work to fix the wire harness. I would appreciate comments on whether I should sell it for parts, partially restore it and sell it, or fully restore it and sell it.

Bob

 

Is it really an original to the car M-22? Wow!

 

Welcome to the site. Pictures and a bit more info would help. Hows the paint/body, any rot? Also hows the interior?

 

X2 an M-22 in the car?

 

Unless it is just eaten up with rust, you definitely not part it out. Rare car. Not all Muncies were rock crushers.

 

M-22 with a low performance low compression Olds 350?

No I don't think so but prove us wrong as the M-22 was used behind the 455 that year though.

 

I doubt it's the M22 - prob a mistake by the OP.

Otherwise, documented 4-speeds are quite rare, but I don't think anyone will venture to give value without photos and more info, and I think there also are some who wouldn't dare give a value without seeing it in person.

 

Welcome. The unfortunate reality is that unless you do a half-@$$-ed job of "restoring" the car, it is very unlikely that you will recoup the investment of a restoration, especially if you are NOT doing the work yourself. The (un)reality shows on TV do not paint a realistic picture of the actual market. Also, understand that Sport Coupes are rare because they were unpopular when new. They were typically stripper loss leaders so the dealership could legally advertise the lowest possible cost. They were somewhat popular with drag racers because they were SLIGHTLY lighter than hardtops, but most of that weight difference was in things like upholstery and sound deadener. The actual weight difference when equipped the same was on the order of 20-ish pounds out of nearly two tons.

The MT was relatively rare in the Cutlass line, but it's a 350, not a 442. Other equipment also matters as far as value is concerned. Bottom line is that you'll probably maximize profit by getting the car running and driving (ie, tuneup, carb rebuild, brakes) and selling as-is.