1981

By the 1981 model year it seemed Oldsmobile had swung full circle in the products it offered and the sales pitch it was using. In the early 1900's the Curved Dash models were touted for their economic natures and were among the best selling cars built. In later years Oldsmobile became known for their reliability, luxury and finally their high performance levels. For 1981 Oldsmobile was again touting the economy of its models and again Oldsmobiles were among the most popular cars built.

In this model year Olds offered 23 models, ranging from the compact Omega through the Toronado. The division's fleet fuel economy average went to more then 22 miles per gallon.

The Toronado continued to be offered as a Brougham coupe. Fuel economy improvements were offered on this front wheel drive coupe. The higher pressure tires were used. Additional structure was added in the window pillars, underbody and rear wheelhouses. Front wheelhouses were now reinforced with fiberglass.

Two engines were offered for the Tornado this year, the 5.0 liter 307 cubic inch V-8 gas fed motor and a 5.7 liter 350 cubic inch diesel powerplant. The diesel was offered on 19 of the 23 Olds models and it continued to be a hot seller despite a heavy price tag. Diesel improvements included a roller hydraulic valve lifter system and increased intervals on oil changes. Diesels were also fitted with an improved water seperation system. A diesel fuel heater option was also available. Over 18 percent of Oldsmobiles sold were now diesel powered. Puncture sealing tires were also on the 1981 option list.

It's $12,526 price tag made the 1981 Toronado the most expensive Oldsmobile ever made. Model Z-57 saw a production run of 38,645. Weight was 3,730 pounds. For awhile this front wheel drive car was built in a special Lansing MI plant. By 1981 production had been shifted to a General Motors Assembly plant on the east coast.

1981 Olds Toronado Brougham

Drivetrain Options:
Diesel 350 cu. in. V-8 $695
Power four-wheel disc brakes $215
Engine Block Heater $16

Major Convenience/Appearance Options:
Tempmatic air conditioning $50
Cruise Control $135
Power Seat $173
Power Windows $221
Twilight Sentinel $49
Power astroroof w/sliding glass panel $995

White/Maroon Leather Interior, 350 Diesel, 70,500 Miles, PS, PB, PW, PL, P-Trunk, Tilt/Telescopic Steering, Power Seats, Tempmatic Heat/AC, Cruise, P-Mirrors, Lighted Vanity Mirrors, P-Sunroof, Digital AM-FM Cassette w/CB, Twlight Sentinel, Spoke Wheels,

Interior:
Cruise
Digital AM-FM Cassette w/CB
Leather Seats
Lighted Vanity Mirrors
Tempmatic Heat/AC
Tilt/Telescopic Steering
Twlight Sentinel
Power Mirrors
Power Seats
Power Sunroof

My Nephue Ryan (almost 2-yrs old)