Ellingson Motorcars

20950 Rogers Drive, Rogers, MN 55374
4.4
4.4 out of 5 stars

Used 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais Hurst

38,259 miles
For Sale:$42,995
Estimated payment:$975/mo.
$0 trade-in, 10% down payment, 48 months, Great credit score

Value ChartA visual chart indicating the fair price range is between $34,900 and $40,900, while the current price is $42,995.$34,900 - $40,900$42,995
  • Priced at $42,995, this vehicle is $2,095 above the high end of its fair market value of $40,900.

  • The current fair market price range is between $34,900 to $40,900.

  • It has 38,259 miles, which is 25,441 (40%) below the median mileage of 63,700.

Note: This is an estimate based on a variety of factors (experimental feature). It is intended to provide a fair market value range to help guide your buying decision.

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  • Car
  • Coupe
  • Condition
    Used
  • Mileage
    38,259miles
  • Drivetrain
    Rear Wheel
  • Transmission
    3-Speed Automatic
  • Exterior Color
    Black/Silver/Red
  • Interior Color
    Dark Maple
  • Upholstery
    Cloth
  • Doors
    2
  • Max Seating
    6
  • Max Towing Capacity
    0lbs.
  • Final Assembly Point
    Lansing A: Lansing, Michigan
  • VIN
    1G3AK4795DM401231
  • Starting MSRP
    $12,215

Engine5L V8 Gasoline 180hp

  • Fuel Type:Gasoline
  • Max Horsepower:180 hp @ 4000 rpm
  • Power to Weight Ratio:18.23lbs/hp
  • Max Torque:245 ft.lbf @ 3200 rpm
  • Displacement:5liters
  • Block Type:V
  • Cylinders:8
  • Aspiration:Naturally Aspirated
  • Fuel Induction:4-Barrel Carburetor
  • Cam Type:OHV
  • Valves:16

Message from the seller

*5.0 Liter/307 Cu. In. V8 *Single 4 Barrel Carburetor *TH200-4R Automatic w/ Lightning Rod Shifter *BFGoodrich Radial T/A Tires on Super Stock Wheels *Power Steering w/ Tilt & Power Front Disc Brakes *Clean CarFax Showing Less than 900 Miles/Year *Factory Air Conditioning *Correct Black Exterior w/ Hurst/Olds Striping *Correct Dark Maple Reclining Bucket Seats *Power Windows/Seats/Door Locks *Stock Instrumentation & AM/FM/Cassette Stereo *Odometer Reads: 38,259 Miles This 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais Hurst/Olds 15th Anniversary is an absolutely gorgeous, 80s muscle car that is loaded with features and believed to have been less than 900 miles per year by its previous owners. Initially introduced for Oldsmobile's 1961 product lineup, the Cutlass was essentially the top trim level for Olds' entry-level F-85 model. Interestingly, the Cutlass was named after the U.S. Navy's F7U Cutlass fighter jet that was known for its tailless design which gave it its ability to be used on the Navy's growing fleet of aircraft carriers. As the 60s progressed, so did the Cutlass with the introduction of the 4-4-2 performance package in 1964 and with the Cutlass becoming its own distinct model in 1967, known for its more deluxe features and trim while retaining a its performance-oriented inclination above the F-85 but below the 442 models. The following year, in 1968, Oldsmobile debuted its Hurst/Olds option for the 442, consisting of a special Black and Peruvian Silver paint scheme, an upgraded handling package, various luxurious trim options, and, most notably, a big block 455 V8 that offered massive performance. The sequel '69 Hurst/Olds sported a slightly different look, this time consisting of Firefrost Gold stripes over White paint, a pair of Ram Air hood scoops, and rear spoiler among other items. The Hurst/Olds then took a short hiatus for a few years, due in part to a change in General Motors' displacement rules. When the Hurst/Olds returned to Oldsmobile's lineup in 1972, the muscle car era had tapered off and while the Hurst/Olds was still offered intermittently throughout the 70s, its performance dropped considerably due to new government regulations that effectively ended the Golden Muscle Car era of the late 60s and early 70s. Then in 1983, Oldsmobile reintroduced the Hurst/Olds package back into its lineup as a limited edition to celebrate the Hurst/Olds 15th Anniversary. The new '83 Hurst/Olds sported an iconic tri-color paint scheme consisting of Black over Silver with Red accents along with a new Hurst/Olds 15th Anniversary emblem. Exterior styling highlights also included a Power Bulge Hood, front air dam, and a rear deck spoiler that harkened back to Hurst/Olds cars in the late 60s. In addition to the unique paint job, the '83 Hurst/Olds came equipped with perhaps most famous for its Hurst Lightning Rod Automatic Shifters that offered a revolutionary approach to transmission controls, allowing the driver to manually shift in and out of 1st and 2nd gear should they wish. Interiors also were trimmed luxuriously with reclining bucket seats, a sport steering wheel, quartz clock, and special gauge package which included a tachometer. While Oldsmobile originally pegged production to 2,500 cars, the H/O was so popular they added another 500 cars bringing total production to 3,000, which makes finding one like this particular car, with its low mileage and collector-grade condition, a difficult proposition. This particular 1983 Cutlass Calais Hurst comes to us from a southern collector who stewarded this car for nearly 20 years. Under the hood on this '83 Hurst/Olds is a 5.0 Liter (307 cubic inch) V8 topped with a single 4 barrel carburetor that together were said to have produced 180 horsepower when new. The 5.0L V8 is backed by a TH200-4R Automatic Transmission, shifted with the iconic Lightning Rod shifter setup, making this classic Oldsmobile muscle car a fun and easy car for anybody to drive. Ex

  • Brakes

    • Power brakes
  • Convenience Features

    • Center console
    • Power steering
  • Seats

    • Front seat type: bucket
    • Upholstery: cloth
  • Tires and Rims

    • Wheel design: rally

  • Seating:

    • Standard Seating:6
    • Max Seating:6
    • Head Room (front):37in.
    • Leg Room (front):42in.
    • Shoulder Room (front):56in.
    • Hip Room (front):51in.
    • Head Room (rear):38in.
    • Leg Room (rear):36in.
    • Shoulder Room (rear):56in.
    • Hip Room (rear):51in.
  • Measurements:

    • Length:199in.
    • Width:71in.
    • Height:54in.
    • Wheelbase:108in.
  • Weight:

    • Curb Weight:3,281lbs
  • Wheels & Tires:

    • Wheel Diameter:13in.
    • Wheel Diameter (rear):13in.
  • Performance:

    • Power to Weight Ratio:18.23lbs/hp

1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais: A Detailed Overview

The 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais represented a significant evolution for Oldsmobile's popular Cutlass line, moving towards a more compact and efficient platform while retaining a touch of premium appeal. It was a response to changing market demands and fuel economy standards, offering a distinct alternative within the General Motors lineup.

Highlights

  • Engine Options: The Cutlass Calais was primarily offered with two engine choices:
    • 1.8L L4 (4-cylinder): This engine was designed for fuel efficiency and was a common choice for buyers prioritizing economy. It provided adequate power for daily driving and city commuting.
    • 3.8L V6: A more powerful option, the V6 offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall performance, making it a more appealing choice for those who desired a bit more spirited driving.
  • Safety Features: While not as advanced as modern vehicles, the 1983 Cutlass Calais incorporated several key safety features for its era:
    • Front Disc Brakes: These provided better stopping power and fade resistance compared to drum brakes, improving driver control in emergency situations.
    • Collapsible Steering Column: Designed to absorb impact energy in a frontal collision, reducing the risk of severe chest injuries to the driver.
    • Dual-Action Safety Seat Belts (Front): These were an early form of passive restraint, designed to automatically secure occupants without manual fastening. While cumbersome by today's standards, they were a step towards improved occupant protection.
    • Impact-Resistant Side Door Beams: These internal reinforcements were designed to help protect occupants from intrusion in side-impact collisions.
  • Trim Levels (Stronger Focus on Calais): The Cutlass Calais was a specific, sportier trim level within the broader Cutlass lineup, distinguished by its more aggressive styling and sport-oriented features. While other Cutlass models existed (like the Supreme), the Calais trim was the focal point of this overview, often featuring:
    • Sportier Suspension Tuning: For a more engaging driving experience.
    • Unique Exterior/Interior Styling Cues: Including specific badging, wheel designs, and interior trim appointments that set it apart.
    • Optional Performance Enhancements: Such as upgraded exhaust systems or different gear ratios.
  • Other Notable Aspects:
    • Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): A significant departure from previous rear-wheel-drive Cutlass models, the FWD platform offered improved interior space and better traction in inclement weather.
    • Aerodynamic Styling: The 1983 model featured a sleeker, more aerodynamic design compared to its predecessors, contributing to better fuel efficiency and a more modern appearance.
    • Comfort and Convenience: Oldsmobile typically equipped its vehicles with a focus on comfort. The Cutlass Calais often included features like air conditioning, power steering, and an AM/FM stereo as standard or available options, aiming for a pleasant ownership experience.

What to Expect

Owning a 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais today typically involves a mixed bag of experiences. On the positive side, these cars can offer a comfortable and relatively quiet ride for their era. The FWD platform generally provides good handling for daily driving, and the V6 engine offers a decent blend of power and smoothness.

Maintenance: As a vehicle from the early 1980s, expect to encounter the typical maintenance needs of a classic car. Routine maintenance like oil changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups will be essential. Parts availability for some specific components might require searching through specialty classic car parts suppliers or online marketplaces. Components like suspension bushings, brake components, and exhaust systems may need attention due to age and wear. Electrical systems, while generally reliable for their time, can be prone to issues with aging wiring or components.

Insurance: Insurance for a 1983 Cutlass Calais will likely fall into the category of classic or collector car insurance, especially if the vehicle is well-maintained and not used as a daily driver. This can often lead to more affordable premiums compared to insuring a modern vehicle, provided you meet the criteria set by the insurance provider (e.g., mileage restrictions, garage storage). Standard auto insurance will also be an option, but premiums will depend on your driving record, location, and the coverage you choose.

Potential Considerations

When considering a 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais, prospective buyers should be aware of a few potential drawbacks:

  • Fuel Economy (Compared to Modern Standards): While more efficient than its RWD predecessors, the 1.8L 4-cylinder and especially the 3.8L V6 are unlikely to match the fuel economy figures of today's compact cars.
  • Performance Limitations: The 4-cylinder engine is quite modest in terms of power, and even the V6, while adequate, won't offer exhilarating acceleration by modern standards.
  • Interior Space and Ergonomics: Compared to larger vehicles, the interior might feel a bit cramped, especially for taller occupants. The ergonomics and layout of controls are typical of the early 1980s and may feel dated.
  • Rust and Corrosion: As with any vehicle of this age, rust is a significant concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Thorough inspection of the undercarriage, wheel wells, and rocker panels is crucial.
  • Technology and Features: Don't expect advanced technology. Features like infotainment systems, backup cameras, or advanced driver-assistance systems are nonexistent. The audio systems are basic by today's standards.

Overall Summary

The 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais was a respectable entry into the compact personal luxury coupe and sedan market of the early 1980s. It offered a more fuel-efficient and modern platform than its predecessors, with a stylish design and a comfortable ride. For enthusiasts or those seeking a classic American car with a touch of Oldsmobile's premium image, the Cutlass Calais can be an appealing choice. However, potential buyers should be prepared for the typical maintenance and potential age-related issues common to vehicles from this era, prioritizing a thorough inspection before purchase.

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Listed on March 28, 2026 (12 days ago)
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