Chuckthizzle

First off hello all! I am looking to buy a COnvertible cutlass for my graduation present next year. I,m in love with the 1969-1972 cutlass convertibles... However, in certain pictures the models look different. the 1969 body lines look more rounded and the body looks shorter ( I like this), and in some pictures the 1970+ convertibles look longer and boxier(is that even a word) Is it me or are the 1969 and 1970 convertibles different other than the front grill and lights? Thank You

vette442

Bodies, engines and interiors are completely different between 1969 cars and the 1970-72 cars, although they share the same chassis. The 1970-72 cars are based on a similar body/interior platform. 1969 is its own beast, much closer to 1968 cars.

Terry

Chuckthizzle

Thank you..From what I have read was that the 1970's and up used the cutlass supreme chassis. As far as engines is it hard to find parts/rebuilding the 350 rocket engine? It seams to me that the chevelle has a billion aftermarket parts the chevy small block come a dime a dozen

Diego

What Terry said!

Think of it like this:

1968-69 vs 1970-72

Pick the generation you want, and then figure out which year you prefer. Of course, if you're looking for factory stock, 1970 is more valuable than 1971-72 due to the latters' low-compression motors. 1968-69 is prob the most bang for your buck.

Chuckthizzle

Thank You for your replies. What engine choices do we have? or best mods for the 350?

Diego

If you get a 1968-70, the standard motor was the 350-4, which should have 310 horsepower - that's a lot for a non-muscle car of the era. A 2bbl. was optional, so don't be surprised if you find this on some cars. With the Cutlass SX for 1970-71, the 455 in various states of tune made things more interesting. I can't remember if the 455 was available on the "regular" Cutlass Supreme but if it was it was released later in the 1970 model year; 1968-69 are strictly 350s aside of the I-6 you could get.

If I'm wrong, I'm sure someone will correct me.

Gary M

69 and 70 were different body and interiors but both are desirable and parts for the body as well as the 350 and 455 are available. Would make an awesome graduation but may require more upkeep than a newer car. Depends on taste and car knowledge of graduate. Good luck.

starfire

If you wanted to go to a '69 442 you could have a 400 cu in. engine.

The '71 would be a lot easier to get parts for. I guess it depends on if you are buying one to restore or one that is already done. If you are going restore the '71 will drive you less crazy looking for parts.

Chuckthizzle

I understand...I would rather have easier access to parts. Im not looking to restore to factory specs or anything, I just want a nice convertible cutlass. Not big on the 442 because ill be driving it often. I want to enjoy driving around town and on the freeway. I figure a 350 will get a little more mpg than the 442 elephant engine.