While attending this year’s infamous Oshawa Autofest Nationals, I found myself surrounded by an incredibly diverse array of vehicles, showcasing top-notch quality, high-end restorations, and award-winning show cars. Among this eclectic mix of automotive works of art, there were those that proudly displayed their battle scars, proving their resilience over the decades. One such remarkable survivor was this 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, owned by @dopeyhotrodz.

Front of @dopeyhotrodz Oldsmobile Cutlass

In 1973, General Motors underwent a significant transformation with the A-Body platform, unveiling the malaise-era “Colonnade” body style. This marked a dramatic departure from the previous generation A-Body vehicles. The four-door mid-size cars underwent a notable alteration, featuring a distinctive side window line that incorporated a solid B-pillar. Remarkably, this design retained the allure of pillarless doors, effectively creating a“pillarless hardtop” body style, akin to its rival, the Ford Gran Torino.

Interior dash of @dopeyhotrodz Oldsmobile Cutlass

This particular Cutlass stood as a Supremely enjoyable embodiment of the Colonnade body style. It deviated from the notion of immaculateness, yet it was precisely this deviation that rendered it perfect. Proudly displaying its battle wounds, it sported matching, aggressively widened steel wheels adorned with meaty radial tires. The exhaust emitted its robust note just before the rear wheels, adding to its rugged charm. The interior, weathered with love, featured wooden accents and some Western-inspired touches, imbuing the ratty muscle car with an aesthetic reminiscent of an Albertan or Texan - an ode to the unique charm of this Oldsmobile.

Interior of @dopeyhotrodz Oldsmobile Cutlass

This 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, owned by @dopeyhotrodz, stood out as a personal favourite at the Oshawa Autofest Nationals. Its tasteful patina, rustic interior, and ratty muscle car theme throughout this machine made it truly an unforgettable highlight of the event weekend.

Rear of @dopeyhotrodz Oldsmobile Cutlass

Until next time, bring your prized rides out to an event and show it off, even if it’s imperfect!

- Kyle Hanger of Searching for Classics