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{{main|Oldsmobile Cutlass}} | |||
{| border=0 align=right | |||
{{Infobox automobile | |||
|- | |||
| name = Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |||
|{{Infobox Automobile | |||
| layout = ] | |||
|name=Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |||
|manufacturer=] | | manufacturer = ] (]) | ||
| model_years = 1964–1977 | |||
|production=]–] | |||
| related = (station wagons)<br>]<br>]<br>]<br>(coupes & sedans)<br>]<br>]<br>]<br>] | |||
|class=] | |||
| image = 1966 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (5279666074).jpg | |||
|body_style=4-door ] | |||
| caption = 1966 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |||
|predecessor= | |||
| class = ] | |||
|successor=] | |||
| chassis = ] | |||
|platform=] ] | |||
| body_style = ] | |||
|related=]<br>]<br>]<br>]<br>]<br>]<br>] | |||
| successor = ] | |||
| platform = ] | |||
}} | }} | ||
|- | |||
The '''Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser''' is a ] manufactured and marketed by ] over three generations from 1964 to 1977. | |||
|{{Infobox Automobile generation | |||
|name=First generation | |||
The first and second generation Vista Cruisers are noted for their fixed-glass, roof-mounted ]s over the second-row seating with sun visors for the second row passengers, a raised roof behind the skylight and lateral glass panels over the rear cargo area along the raised roof, and access to the third row of forward-facing passenger seating was accomplished by a second row split bench seat that retracted forward. | |||
|image=] | |||
|production=]–] | |||
Sharing its bodystyle with the ], ] and ], the Vista Cruiser was introduced on February 4, 1964, as a 1964 model, based on the ]/F-85 Series.<ref name="Gunnell 1995">{{cite book|editor-last=Gunnell | editor-first = John|title=The Standard Catalog of American Cars 1946–1975| publisher=Kraus Publications|pages=481–518|year=1995|isbn=0-87341-204-4}}</ref> The skylight roof panel was only shared with the Buick Sport Wagon and was not available on the Chevrolet Chevelle or Pontiac Tempest station wagons.<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> Prior to the 1973 model year the Vista Cruiser utilized a wheelbase which was {{Convert|5|in|mm|0}} longer than that of the Cutlass/F-85 sedan. | |||
|engine=330 in³ '']'' ] | |||
|wheelbase=120 in | |||
Subsequent Oldsmobile mid-size wagons featured a skylight as did the 1991–92 full-size ] wagon and the 1991–96 ]. | |||
Reminiscent of earlier models, the third generation Vista Cruiser (1973–1977) featured optional rear-facing third row seating, while incorporating a single flat venting moonroof over the front row seating. | |||
__TOC__ | |||
{{clear}} | |||
==First generation (1964–1967)== | |||
{{Infobox automobile | |||
| name = First generation | |||
| image = 1965 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser; Shoreview, MN (43128855331).jpg | |||
| caption = 1965 Vista Cruiser | |||
| model_years = 1964–1967 | |||
| assembly = ], ]<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /><br />], ]<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
| platform = ] | |||
| engine = {{ubl | |||
| {{convert|225|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} ] | |||
| {{convert|250|cuin|L|abbr=on}} ] | |||
| {{convert|330|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} ] | |||
| {{convert|400|cuin|L|abbr=on}} ] | |||
}} | |||
| transmission = 2-speed ]<br>3-speed ]<br>4-speed ]<br>3-speed manual | |||
| wheelbase = {{Convert|120|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| length = {{Convert|208|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| width = {{Convert|73.6|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| weight = {{Convert|3405|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| related = ]<br>]<br>] | |||
}} | }} | ||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
The first-generation Vista Cruiser pioneered a standard<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> raised roof with split skylight that began over the second-row seating, with lateral glass panels over the rear cargo area that was earlier introduced in 1954 on the ]. Sun visors for second row passengers, and a third row of forward-facing passenger seating, were available as an option. Access to the third row was gained by a split-folding second row seat that could be retracted forward. | |||
The Vista Cruiser was available as the standard or Custom trim package, and included as standard equipment a coil spring suspension, three-speed manual transmission, self-adjusting brakes with an air scoop, and an aluminized exhaust. Cloth or "]" vinyl upholstery was offered. Optional equipment included power brakes, power steering, air conditioning, power adjustable front bench seat, two-tone paint, a choice of radios, engines and transmissions, cruise control, and a limited slip differential. The listed retail price before options was $3,122 (${{formatnum:{{Inflation|US|3122|1964}}}} in {{Inflation-year|US}} dollars {{inflation-fn|US}}).<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> Adding optional equipment could add more than $735 (${{formatnum:{{Inflation|US|735|1964}}}} in {{Inflation-year|US}} dollars {{inflation-fn|US}}) along with local taxes and license registration fees.<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
In 1964, the Vista Cruiser was one of three station wagons offered by Oldsmobile, the others being the ] which shared the ] intermediates, and the full-sized ] ].<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
From 1965 Oldsmobile discontinued the full-sized Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 wagon, making the Vista Cruiser the division's longer model; the shorter-wheelbase F-85 station wagon became the entry-level trim package of the Vista Cruiser and was not offered the raised roof skylights.<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
Engines in the Vista Cruiser paralleled other Olds intermediates, with a {{convert|330|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} ] offered from 1964 to 1967 producing from {{convert|210|to|320|hp|kW}} depending on year and carburetion. For 1964, Buick's {{convert|225|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} ] was the standard engine.<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
Transmission included the two-speed ] ] and two rarely equipped manual transmissions, a three-speed column shift and a four-speed floor shift. | |||
Beginning in 1966 it revived the long-standing tradition offering optional ] using ] ] appearance.<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
{| class="wikitable" | |||
! colspan="3" |First-generation Vista Cruiser production (6- and 9 passenger combined)<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
|- | |- | ||
!Year | |||
|{{Infobox Automobile generation | |||
!Vista Cruiser | |||
|name=Second generation | |||
!Vista Cruiser Custom | |||
|image=] | |||
|production=]–] | |||
|engine=350 in³ '']'' ] | |||
<br>400 in³ '']'' ] | |||
<br>455 in³ '']'' ] | |||
|wheelbase=121 in | |||
}} | |||
|- | |- | ||
|1964 | |||
|{{Infobox Automobile generation | |||
|3,394 | |||
|name=Third generation | |||
|10,606 | |||
|image=] | |||
|- | |||
|production=]–] | |||
|1965 | |||
|engine=350 in³ '']'' ]<br>403 in³ '']'' ]<br>455 in³ '']'' ] | |||
|5,445 | |||
|wheelbase=116 in | |||
|26,540 | |||
|- | |||
|1966 | |||
|3,529 | |||
|23,077 | |||
|- | |||
|1967 | |||
|2,748 | |||
|24,806 | |||
|- | |||
|} | |||
{{clear}} | |||
==Second generation (1968–1972)== | |||
{{Infobox automobile | |||
| name = Second generation | |||
| image = 1970 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser, front right (ISWC meet, July 15, 2023).jpg | |||
| caption = 1970 Vista Cruiser | |||
| model_years = 1968–1972 | |||
| assembly = ], ]<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /><br />], ]<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /><br />], ]<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /><br />], ]<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /><br />], ], Canada<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
| platform = ] | |||
| engine = {{convert|350|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} '']''<br>{{convert|400|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} '']''<br>{{convert|455|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} '']'' | |||
| related = ]<br>]<br>] | |||
| wheelbase = {{convert|121|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| length = {{Convert|218.2|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| width = {{Convert|77.2|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| height = {{Convert|58.6|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| weight = {{Convert|4064|lb|abbr=on}} | |||
| transmission = 2-speed ]<br>3-speed ] automatic<br>4-speed ]<br>3-speed manual | |||
}} | }} | ||
From 1968 to 1972, a {{convert|350|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 became standard, with a high-output {{convert|400|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} ] from the ] muscle car optional in 1968-69, and a {{convert|455|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 available from 1970 to 1972. The listed retail price for the eight passenger 1968 version before options was $3,508 (${{formatnum:{{Inflation|US|3508|1968}}}} in {{Inflation-year|US}} dollars {{inflation-fn|US}}).<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> A major restyling of the GM A-body car line for 1968 replaced the split skylight with a one-piece unit, stretched the wheelbase to {{convert|121|in|mm|sigfig=4|abbr=on}}, and included windshield wipers recessed below the hood line. Standard equipment included dual master brake cylinder, four-way emergency hazard lights, padded dashboard, reverse indication lights, chrome hubcaps and seat belts, with an additional folding second row seat and lockable underfloor storage compartment in the cargo area where the optional, folding third row seat was stored. The upholstery was available in cloth or ] vinyl. Additional optional items included power brakes, power steering, air conditioning, power extending radio antenna, electric clock, cruise control, wire wheel hubcaps, tissue dispenser, courtesy interior lighting, ] headlamp control, ] automatic headlights, rooftop luggage carrier, floor mats, several AM/FM radio selections including an ] player, and decorative door edge guards.<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
Transmission offerings through the years included one of two ]—the two-speed ] (1968) or three-speed ] (1968–72), or very rarely, a standard three-speed ] with column shift or optional four-speed manual with floor-mounted Hurst shifter borrowed from the ]. | |||
In 1969, the "Dual-Action" tailgate was introduced as an option on two-row models and standard equipment on three-row. | |||
In 1970, an exterior redesign sharpened edges and curves. Although it closely resembled the 1968-69 models, and is essentially regarded a second-generation car (The GM Skywagon Club recognizes the 1970-72 models as "Generation 2a"), many body parts were no longer interchangeable. The dashboard was also completely redesigned. | |||
For 1971, Oldsmobile brought back the full-sized ] wagon on a {{convert|127.0|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} wheelbase ] ] chassis, featuring GM's disappearing clamshell tailgate, but the glass-roofed Vista Cruiser continued until 1972.<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
A small number of 1972 Vista Cruisers were modified by ] for support car duties at the 1972 ], joining the 1972 Hurst/Olds official pace car. Both were equipped with {{convert|455|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} Rocket V8. Two modified Vista Cruisers are known to survive as of 2012, a press car and a medical director's car. As of 2012, the medical director's car is owned by a relative of ], the winner of the first Indianapolis 500 in 1911. | |||
<gallery widths="200px" heights="150px"> | |||
File:69 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (14091626287).jpg|1969 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |||
File:1970 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (28763327602).jpg|1970 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |||
File:1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser, Shoreview, MN (28259232507).jpg|1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |||
File:1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (19811606116).jpg|1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |||
</gallery> | |||
{| class="wikitable" | |||
! colspan="3" |Second-generation Vista Cruiser production<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
|- | |||
!Year | |||
!Vista Cruiser 6 passenger | |||
!Vista Cruiser 8 passenger | |||
|- | |||
|1968 | |||
|13,375 | |||
|22,768 | |||
|- | |||
|1969 | |||
|11,879 | |||
|21,508 | |||
|- | |||
|1970 | |||
|10,758 | |||
|23,336 | |||
|- | |||
|1971 | |||
|9,317 | |||
|20,566 | |||
|- | |||
|1972 | |||
|10,573 | |||
|21,340 | |||
|- | |- | ||
|} | |} | ||
{{-}} | |||
The '''Vista Cruiser''' was a ] built by the ] Division of ] from 1964 to 1977, which was based on the ]/F-85 model, but had a slightly longer wheelbase than the cars it was based upon. | |||
==Third generation (1973–1977)== | |||
Noted for the glass found in the roof over the second-row seating and for the smaller glass panels over the rear cargo area windows, this car was introduced to the public on February 4, 1964 as a 1964 model. This body style with the split front skylight continued through the 1967 model year and was replaced by a radically redesigned model for 1968 that featured a one-piece front skylight. This body style was not unique to Oldsmobile, being shared with the ], and was not repeated in future Oldsmobile mid-size wagons, however, the skylight concept was repeated with the 1991-92 full-size ] wagon and echoed by its corporate sibling, the 1991-96 ] wagon. The forward facing third row seat is also unusual for car-based wagons, and is also seen on the ] and ]. | |||
{{Infobox automobile | |||
| name = Third generation | |||
| image = 1976 Vista Cruiser.jpg | |||
| caption = 1977 Vista Cruiser | |||
| model_years = 1973–1977 | |||
| assembly = ], ]<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /><br/>], ]<br />], ]<br />], ]<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
| related = ]<br>]<br>] | |||
| engine = {{convert|350|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} '']'' ]<br>{{convert|403|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} '']'' V8 (1977) <br>{{convert|455|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} '']'' V8 (1973–76) | |||
| wheelbase = {{Convert|116|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| length = {{convert|211|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| width = {{Convert|76.5|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| height = {{Convert|58.6|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} | |||
| weight = {{Convert|4392|lb|abbr=on}} | |||
| transmission = 3-speed ] automatic | |||
| platform = ] | |||
}} | |||
For 1973, the ] intermediate platform was completely redesigned and the separate wheelbase used by the Vista Cruiser and Buick Sport Wagon eliminated; all A-body wagons were now built on the 116-inch sedan wheelbase. While its Buick counterpart was replaced with the ] station wagon, the Vista Cruiser was the woodgrained version, and the new ] joined the station wagon list for 1974. Despite the shortened wheelbase, three-row seating returned, with the third row direction changed to facing rearward. The "Dual-Action" tailgate was replaced by a one-piece hatchback with a fixed rear window that did not retract into the door. Ventilation to the third row was limited to the second row side windows.<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
Standard equipment was updated to include a {{convert|350|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} ], the three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission, power brakes with front discs instead of drums, power steering, cigarette lighter, windshield-embedded radio antenna, interior hood release, fiberglass noise insulation installed on the inside of the engine hood cover, and the availability of ] vinyl upholstery.<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> The listed retail price was $3,901 before optional equipment (${{formatnum:{{Inflation|US|3901|1973}}}} in {{Inflation-year|US}} dollars {{inflation-fn|US}}), which included sport mirrors, Super Stock wheels, full instrumentation gauges, several AM/FM radio to include stereo options, power door locks, the {{convert|455|cuin|L|1|adj=on}} Rocket V8 optional through 1976, replaced the following year by a {{convert|403|cuin|L|1|adj=on}} Rocket V8, and vinyl roof.<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
This design also featured an elevated rear roof section, based on the ] Vista Dome, and the GM ] bus<sup></sup> made for ] in the ], and also allowed extra headroom for an optional front-facing third-row seat. | |||
The model's distinctive skylights gave way to boxy "Colonnade" styling, including the loss of the front door vent windows. A pop-up sunroof over the front seats was optional. | |||
Although the roof glass was substituted for an optional pop-up front-row sunroof for the 1973 model year, the Vista Cruiser name continued for five more model years as an elevated trim level of the Cutlass Supreme station wagon until the Cutlass Cruiser was introduced for the 1978 model year. | |||
<gallery widths="200px" heights="150px"> | |||
Some people obviously do not think Dave Fesz has the most sought after 1970 Vista Cruiser, but they would be mistaken. | |||
File:'75 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (Auto classique VAQ Beaconsfield '13).JPG|1975 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |||
File:1976 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser, pale yellow, front left.jpg|1976 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |||
</gallery> | |||
{| class="wikitable" | |||
! colspan="3" |Third-generation Vista Cruiser production<ref name="Gunnell 1995" /> | |||
|- | |||
!Year | |||
!Vista Cruiser 6 passenger | |||
!Vista Cruiser 8 passenger | |||
|- | |||
|1973 | |||
|10,894 | |||
|13,531 | |||
|- | |||
|1974 | |||
|4,191 | |||
|7,013 | |||
|- | |||
|1975 | |||
|4,963 | |||
|9,226 | |||
|- | |||
|1976 | |||
|n/a | |||
|20,560 | |||
|- | |||
|1977 | |||
|n/a | |||
|25,816 | |||
|- | |||
|} | |||
{{clear}} | |||
==Pop Culture== | |||
A second generation 1969 Vista Cruiser was ]'s car on '']''. | |||
==In popular culture== | |||
At the beginning of National Lampoon's Vacation the car that gets crushed is a Vista Cruiser. | |||
A 1969 Aztec Gold Vista Cruiser was a key component of '']'', with the pilot of the series revolving around ]'s decision to pass the car down to his son, ]. The car would remain a fixture through the series' eight-season run, with many key scenes occurring on or in the car. In the sequel series '']'', Red gives the car to Eric and Donna's daughter, Leia for her 15th birthday. In 2016, Rod Authority named Eric's Vista Cruiser #22 on their list of the 50 greatest television automobiles.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.rodauthority.com/news/top-50-tv-cars-of-all-time-no-22-that-70s-show-oldsmobile-wagon/ |title= Top 50 TV Cars of All Time| website= rodauthority.com|author= Garage Girl|publisher= Power Automedia|date=September 30, 2016|access-date=April 12, 2020}}</ref> | |||
==References== | |||
{{reflist}} | |||
; General | |||
* {{cite book | |||
| last = Gunnell | |||
| first = John | |||
| title = American Cars of the 1960s | |||
| publisher = Krause Publications | |||
| year = 2005 | |||
| page = 194 | |||
| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=_apeyhD-Dj8C&q=Buick+Sport+wagon+history&pg=PA194 | |||
| isbn = 978-0-89689-131-9 }} | |||
==External links== | ==External links== | ||
* | |||
* | |||
* | * | ||
* | |||
{{Oldsmobile}} | {{Oldsmobile}} | ||
{{Oldsmobile postwar timeline}} | |||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | |||
] |
Latest revision as of 00:45, 29 September 2024
Main article: Oldsmobile Cutlass Motor vehicleOldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |
---|---|
1966 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |
Overview | |
Manufacturer | Oldsmobile (General Motors) |
Model years | 1964–1977 |
Body and chassis | |
Class | Mid-size |
Body style | Station Wagon |
Layout | FR layout |
Platform | A-body |
Chassis | body on frame |
Related | (station wagons) Chevrolet Chevelle Greenbrier Pontiac Tempest Custom Safari Buick Sport Wagon (coupes & sedans) Oldsmobile Cutlass Chevrolet Chevelle Pontiac Tempest Buick Skylark |
Chronology | |
Successor | Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Cruiser |
The Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser is a station wagon manufactured and marketed by Oldsmobile over three generations from 1964 to 1977.
The first and second generation Vista Cruisers are noted for their fixed-glass, roof-mounted skylights over the second-row seating with sun visors for the second row passengers, a raised roof behind the skylight and lateral glass panels over the rear cargo area along the raised roof, and access to the third row of forward-facing passenger seating was accomplished by a second row split bench seat that retracted forward.
Sharing its bodystyle with the Buick Sport Wagon, Pontiac Tempest Safari and Chevrolet Chevelle Greenbrier, the Vista Cruiser was introduced on February 4, 1964, as a 1964 model, based on the Oldsmobile Cutlass/F-85 Series. The skylight roof panel was only shared with the Buick Sport Wagon and was not available on the Chevrolet Chevelle or Pontiac Tempest station wagons. Prior to the 1973 model year the Vista Cruiser utilized a wheelbase which was 5 inches (127 mm) longer than that of the Cutlass/F-85 sedan.
Subsequent Oldsmobile mid-size wagons featured a skylight as did the 1991–92 full-size Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser wagon and the 1991–96 Buick Roadmaster Estate.
Reminiscent of earlier models, the third generation Vista Cruiser (1973–1977) featured optional rear-facing third row seating, while incorporating a single flat venting moonroof over the front row seating.
First generation (1964–1967)
Motor vehicleFirst generation | |
---|---|
1965 Vista Cruiser | |
Overview | |
Model years | 1964–1967 |
Assembly | Lansing Car Assembly, Lansing, Michigan Fremont Assembly, Fremont, California |
Body and chassis | |
Platform | GM A-body |
Related | Buick Sport Wagon Pontiac Tempest Safari Chevrolet Chevelle Greenbrier |
Powertrain | |
Engine |
|
Transmission | 2-speed Jetaway automatic 3-speed Roto Hydramatic 4-speed manual 3-speed manual |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 120 in (3,048 mm) |
Length | 208 in (5,283 mm) |
Width | 73.6 in (1,869 mm) |
Curb weight | 3,405 lb (1,544 kg) |
The first-generation Vista Cruiser pioneered a standard raised roof with split skylight that began over the second-row seating, with lateral glass panels over the rear cargo area that was earlier introduced in 1954 on the GMC Scenicruiser Bus. Sun visors for second row passengers, and a third row of forward-facing passenger seating, were available as an option. Access to the third row was gained by a split-folding second row seat that could be retracted forward.
The Vista Cruiser was available as the standard or Custom trim package, and included as standard equipment a coil spring suspension, three-speed manual transmission, self-adjusting brakes with an air scoop, and an aluminized exhaust. Cloth or "Morocceen" vinyl upholstery was offered. Optional equipment included power brakes, power steering, air conditioning, power adjustable front bench seat, two-tone paint, a choice of radios, engines and transmissions, cruise control, and a limited slip differential. The listed retail price before options was $3,122 ($30,671 in 2023 dollars ). Adding optional equipment could add more than $735 ($7,221 in 2023 dollars ) along with local taxes and license registration fees.
In 1964, the Vista Cruiser was one of three station wagons offered by Oldsmobile, the others being the F-85 station wagon which shared the "A" platform intermediates, and the full-sized GM B platform Dynamic 88 Fiesta.
From 1965 Oldsmobile discontinued the full-sized Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 wagon, making the Vista Cruiser the division's longer model; the shorter-wheelbase F-85 station wagon became the entry-level trim package of the Vista Cruiser and was not offered the raised roof skylights.
Engines in the Vista Cruiser paralleled other Olds intermediates, with a 330 cu in (5.4 L) Rocket V8 offered from 1964 to 1967 producing from 210 to 320 horsepower (160 to 240 kW) depending on year and carburetion. For 1964, Buick's 225 cu in (3.7 L) V6 was the standard engine.
Transmission included the two-speed Jetaway automatic transmission and two rarely equipped manual transmissions, a three-speed column shift and a four-speed floor shift.
Beginning in 1966 it revived the long-standing tradition offering optional simulated woodgrain using DI-NOC vinyl wrap appearance.
First-generation Vista Cruiser production (6- and 9 passenger combined) | ||
---|---|---|
Year | Vista Cruiser | Vista Cruiser Custom |
1964 | 3,394 | 10,606 |
1965 | 5,445 | 26,540 |
1966 | 3,529 | 23,077 |
1967 | 2,748 | 24,806 |
Second generation (1968–1972)
Motor vehicleSecond generation | |
---|---|
1970 Vista Cruiser | |
Overview | |
Model years | 1968–1972 |
Assembly | Lansing Car Assembly, Lansing, Michigan Framingham Assembly, Framingham, Massachusetts Fremont Assembly, Fremont, California Linden Assembly, Linden, New Jersey Oshawa Car Assembly, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada |
Body and chassis | |
Platform | GM A-body |
Related | Buick Sport Wagon Pontiac Tempest Safari Chevrolet Chevelle Greenbrier |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 350 cu in (5.7 L) Rocket V8 400 cu in (6.6 L) Rocket V8 455 cu in (7.5 L) Rocket V8 |
Transmission | 2-speed Jetaway automatic 3-speed Turbo Hydramatic automatic 4-speed manual 3-speed manual |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 121 in (3,073 mm) |
Length | 218.2 in (5,542 mm) |
Width | 77.2 in (1,961 mm) |
Height | 58.6 in (1,488 mm) |
Curb weight | 4,064 lb (1,843 kg) |
From 1968 to 1972, a 350 cu in (5.7 L) V8 became standard, with a high-output 400 cu in (6.6 L) V8 from the 442 muscle car optional in 1968-69, and a 455 cu in (7.5 L) V8 available from 1970 to 1972. The listed retail price for the eight passenger 1968 version before options was $3,508 ($30,736 in 2023 dollars ). A major restyling of the GM A-body car line for 1968 replaced the split skylight with a one-piece unit, stretched the wheelbase to 121 in (3,073 mm), and included windshield wipers recessed below the hood line. Standard equipment included dual master brake cylinder, four-way emergency hazard lights, padded dashboard, reverse indication lights, chrome hubcaps and seat belts, with an additional folding second row seat and lockable underfloor storage compartment in the cargo area where the optional, folding third row seat was stored. The upholstery was available in cloth or Morocceen vinyl. Additional optional items included power brakes, power steering, air conditioning, power extending radio antenna, electric clock, cruise control, wire wheel hubcaps, tissue dispenser, courtesy interior lighting, GuideMatic headlamp control, Twilight Sentinel automatic headlights, rooftop luggage carrier, floor mats, several AM/FM radio selections including an 8 track tape player, and decorative door edge guards.
Transmission offerings through the years included one of two automatics—the two-speed Jetaway (1968) or three-speed Turbo Hydramatic (1968–72), or very rarely, a standard three-speed manual with column shift or optional four-speed manual with floor-mounted Hurst shifter borrowed from the Oldsmobile 442.
In 1969, the "Dual-Action" tailgate was introduced as an option on two-row models and standard equipment on three-row.
In 1970, an exterior redesign sharpened edges and curves. Although it closely resembled the 1968-69 models, and is essentially regarded a second-generation car (The GM Skywagon Club recognizes the 1970-72 models as "Generation 2a"), many body parts were no longer interchangeable. The dashboard was also completely redesigned.
For 1971, Oldsmobile brought back the full-sized Custom Cruiser wagon on a 127.0 in (3,226 mm) wheelbase 98 C-body chassis, featuring GM's disappearing clamshell tailgate, but the glass-roofed Vista Cruiser continued until 1972.
A small number of 1972 Vista Cruisers were modified by Hurst Performance for support car duties at the 1972 Indianapolis 500, joining the 1972 Hurst/Olds official pace car. Both were equipped with 455 cu in (7.5 L) Rocket V8. Two modified Vista Cruisers are known to survive as of 2012, a press car and a medical director's car. As of 2012, the medical director's car is owned by a relative of Ray Harroun, the winner of the first Indianapolis 500 in 1911.
- 1969 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser
- 1970 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser
- 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser
- 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser
Second-generation Vista Cruiser production | ||
---|---|---|
Year | Vista Cruiser 6 passenger | Vista Cruiser 8 passenger |
1968 | 13,375 | 22,768 |
1969 | 11,879 | 21,508 |
1970 | 10,758 | 23,336 |
1971 | 9,317 | 20,566 |
1972 | 10,573 | 21,340 |
Third generation (1973–1977)
Motor vehicleThird generation | |
---|---|
1977 Vista Cruiser | |
Overview | |
Model years | 1973–1977 |
Assembly | Lansing Car Assembly, Lansing, Michigan Arlington Assembly, Arlington, Texas Doraville Assembly, Doraville, Georgia Framingham Assembly, Framingham, Massachusetts |
Body and chassis | |
Platform | GM A-body |
Related | Buick Century Estate Pontiac Grand LeMans Safari Chevrolet Malibu Estate |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 350 cu in (5.7 L) Rocket V8 403 cu in (6.6 L) Rocket V8 (1977) 455 cu in (7.5 L) Rocket V8 (1973–76) |
Transmission | 3-speed Turbo Hydramatic automatic |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 116 in (2,946 mm) |
Length | 211 in (5,359 mm) |
Width | 76.5 in (1,943 mm) |
Height | 58.6 in (1,488 mm) |
Curb weight | 4,392 lb (1,992 kg) |
For 1973, the GM A-body intermediate platform was completely redesigned and the separate wheelbase used by the Vista Cruiser and Buick Sport Wagon eliminated; all A-body wagons were now built on the 116-inch sedan wheelbase. While its Buick counterpart was replaced with the Buick Century Estate station wagon, the Vista Cruiser was the woodgrained version, and the new Cutlass Supreme Cruiser joined the station wagon list for 1974. Despite the shortened wheelbase, three-row seating returned, with the third row direction changed to facing rearward. The "Dual-Action" tailgate was replaced by a one-piece hatchback with a fixed rear window that did not retract into the door. Ventilation to the third row was limited to the second row side windows.
Standard equipment was updated to include a 350 cu in (5.7 L) Rocket V8, the three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission, power brakes with front discs instead of drums, power steering, cigarette lighter, windshield-embedded radio antenna, interior hood release, fiberglass noise insulation installed on the inside of the engine hood cover, and the availability of Morocceen vinyl upholstery. The listed retail price was $3,901 before optional equipment ($26,775 in 2023 dollars ), which included sport mirrors, Super Stock wheels, full instrumentation gauges, several AM/FM radio to include stereo options, power door locks, the 455-cubic-inch (7.5 L) Rocket V8 optional through 1976, replaced the following year by a 403-cubic-inch (6.6 L) Rocket V8, and vinyl roof.
The model's distinctive skylights gave way to boxy "Colonnade" styling, including the loss of the front door vent windows. A pop-up sunroof over the front seats was optional.
Third-generation Vista Cruiser production | ||
---|---|---|
Year | Vista Cruiser 6 passenger | Vista Cruiser 8 passenger |
1973 | 10,894 | 13,531 |
1974 | 4,191 | 7,013 |
1975 | 4,963 | 9,226 |
1976 | n/a | 20,560 |
1977 | n/a | 25,816 |
In popular culture
A 1969 Aztec Gold Vista Cruiser was a key component of That '70s Show, with the pilot of the series revolving around Red Forman's decision to pass the car down to his son, Eric Forman. The car would remain a fixture through the series' eight-season run, with many key scenes occurring on or in the car. In the sequel series That '90s Show, Red gives the car to Eric and Donna's daughter, Leia for her 15th birthday. In 2016, Rod Authority named Eric's Vista Cruiser #22 on their list of the 50 greatest television automobiles.
References
- ^ Gunnell, John, ed. (1995). The Standard Catalog of American Cars 1946–1975. Kraus Publications. pp. 481–518. ISBN 0-87341-204-4.
- ^ 1634–1699: McCusker, J. J. (1997). How Much Is That in Real Money? A Historical Price Index for Use as a Deflator of Money Values in the Economy of the United States: Addenda et Corrigenda (PDF). American Antiquarian Society. 1700–1799: McCusker, J. J. (1992). How Much Is That in Real Money? A Historical Price Index for Use as a Deflator of Money Values in the Economy of the United States (PDF). American Antiquarian Society. 1800–present: Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. "Consumer Price Index (estimate) 1800–". Retrieved February 29, 2024.
- Garage Girl (September 30, 2016). "Top 50 TV Cars of All Time". rodauthority.com. Power Automedia. Retrieved April 12, 2020.
- General
- Gunnell, John (2005). American Cars of the 1960s. Krause Publications. p. 194. ISBN 978-0-89689-131-9.
External links
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