The Oldsmobile Cutlass was introduced in 1961 as the top trim level in Olds’ compact F-85 line. It became one of the most popular cars in the industry in the 1970s. Then by the 1980s, Oldsmobile was using the “Cutlass” label with a number of different vehicle lines. For example, Cutlass Calais, Cutlass Ciera, Cutlass Cruiser station wagon, and the premium Cutlass Supreme.
The Oldsmobile 442 was introduced as an option package for Cutlass beginning with the 1964 model. The 442 became a model in its own right from 1968 to 1971, then reverted back as an option through the mid-1970s.