The Oldsmobile Toronado is a fascinating piece of automotive history, known for its innovative design and powerful performance. Here are some fascinating facts about the Oldsmobile Toronado that highlight its unique place in the world of classic cars.
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First American Front-Wheel Drive Car in Decades
The Oldsmobile Toronado, introduced in 1966, was the first American car with front-wheel drive (FWD) since the Cord 810/812 of the 1930s. Its innovative design, featuring a longitudinally mounted V8 engine and the Turbo-Hydramatic 425 transmission, set a new standard for FWD vehicles in the U.S. This configuration provided better traction and handling, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Revolutionary Unitized Power Package (UPP)
The Toronado’s Unitized Power Package (UPP) was a groundbreaking engineering feat. It combined the engine and transmission into a single, compact unit, making the FWD layout possible without sacrificing interior space. This design was not only efficient but also improved the car’s weight distribution, enhancing its overall performance and handling.
7.0-Liter V8 Engine
The first-generation Toronado was powered by a massive 7.0-liter (425 cubic inches) Rocket V8 engine, producing 385 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine allowed the Toronado to achieve impressive performance for its time, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds and a top speed of over 130 mph.
Innovative Torsion Bar Suspension
The Toronado featured an innovative torsion bar front suspension system, which provided a smoother ride and better handling compared to traditional coil spring setups. This design also contributed to the car’s low, sleek profile, which was a key aspect of its distinctive appearance.
Unique Hidden Headlights
One of the most striking design features of the Toronado was its hidden headlights, which were concealed behind the grille when not in use. This design choice gave the car a clean, futuristic look and became a hallmark of the Toronado’s styling. The hidden headlights were operated by a vacuum system, which was quite advanced for the time.
Award-Winning Design
The Oldsmobile Toronado won numerous design awards upon its release, including the prestigious Motor Trend Car of the Year award in 1966. Its bold, futuristic styling, combined with its innovative engineering, made it a standout in the automotive world. The Toronado’s design was heavily influenced by the work of GM designer David North.
Influence on Cadillac Eldorado
The success of the Oldsmobile Toronado’s FWD system influenced the design of the 1967 Cadillac Eldorado, which adopted a similar FWD layout. The Eldorado’s use of the Toronado’s drivetrain components helped establish FWD as a viable option for American luxury cars, paving the way for future models.
Turbocharged Experimental Model
In 1968, Oldsmobile experimented with a turbocharged version of the Toronado, known as the “Toronado GT.” This experimental model featured a Garrett AiResearch turbocharger, which boosted the engine’s output to an estimated 450 horsepower. Although it never went into production, the turbocharged Toronado showcased Oldsmobile’s commitment to innovation and performance.
First Car with Standard Disc Brakes
The 1967 Toronado was one of the first American cars to offer standard front disc brakes. This improvement significantly enhanced the car’s stopping power and safety, setting a new benchmark for braking performance in the industry. The addition of disc brakes also helped manage the car’s considerable weight and power.
Massive Sales Success
The Toronado was a commercial success, with over 40,000 units sold in its first year alone. Its popularity continued throughout the late 1960s, solidifying Oldsmobile’s reputation for innovation and engineering excellence. The Toronado’s success helped revitalize the Oldsmobile brand and attract a new generation of buyers.
Unique Drivetrain Configuration
The Toronado’s FWD layout featured a unique drivetrain configuration, with the engine mounted longitudinally and the transmission positioned alongside it. This setup allowed for a shorter and more compact engine bay, maximizing interior space and contributing to the car’s distinctive proportions.
Aerodynamic Design
The Toronado’s sleek, aerodynamic design was ahead of its time. Its low, wide stance and smooth lines reduced drag and improved fuel efficiency. The car’s designers paid special attention to aerodynamics, resulting in a drag coefficient of just 0.34, which was impressive for a vehicle of its size and power.
Toronado’s Role in GM’s Safety Push
The Toronado played a significant role in General Motors’ push for improved vehicle safety in the late 1960s. In addition to its advanced braking system, the Toronado featured a robust, reinforced body structure designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These safety innovations helped set new standards for the industry.
First American Car with Radial Tires
In 1971, the Toronado became the first American car to come standard with radial tires. Radial tires offered better handling, improved fuel efficiency, and a smoother ride compared to traditional bias-ply tires. This advancement further enhanced the Toronado’s reputation for cutting-edge technology and performance.
Unique GT Option Package
In 1968, Oldsmobile introduced the GT option package for the Toronado, which included performance upgrades such as a high-performance 455 cubic inch V8 engine, heavy-duty suspension, and dual exhausts. The GT package transformed the Toronado into a true performance car, capable of competing with the era’s best muscle cars.
Introduction of the XS and XSR Models
In 1977, Oldsmobile introduced the XS and XSR models of the Toronado. The XS featured a wraparound rear window for improved visibility, while the XSR included a power-operated T-top roof. These unique features added to the Toronado’s appeal and showcased Oldsmobile’s commitment to innovation and style.
Advanced Climate Control System
The Toronado was one of the first cars to offer an advanced climate control system, known as “Comfortron.” This system automatically adjusted the car’s heating and cooling settings to maintain a constant interior temperature, providing a new level of comfort and convenience for drivers and passengers.
Toronado’s Influence on Future Models
The Toronado’s innovative engineering and design influenced numerous future models from Oldsmobile and other GM brands. Its success demonstrated the viability of FWD for large, powerful cars and helped pave the way for other groundbreaking models like the Buick Riviera and Cadillac Eldorado.
Unique “Strato Bucket” Seats
The Toronado featured unique “Strato Bucket” seats, which were designed for maximum comfort and support during long drives. These seats were adjustable and featured thick padding, contributing to the car’s reputation for luxury and comfort. The Strato Bucket seats became a popular option in other GM vehicles as well.
Toronado’s Role in Pop Culture
The Toronado has made numerous appearances in movies, television shows, and music videos over the years, cementing its status as an iconic American car. Its distinctive design and innovative features have made it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its place in automotive history.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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