[Lee Stewart]

By 1968 the muscle car era was in full swing. So why did Olds (and Pontiac) offer a low performance version . . . Olds 442 RPO L65 Turnpike Cruiser. It came with a 400 CI 2 BBL 290 HP regular gas engine. The cost was $236.97 and included the M40 Turbo Automatic which also just happened to cost the same amount. So what Olds was offering really wasn't a bargain unless you drove a whole bunch of miles per week, wanted the "442 Look" and not have to pay for premium gas.

Externally there is no difference between a 442 and the L65 442. Both came with HD suspension, rear sway bar and redline tires along with the signature dual trumpet exhaust. You could substitute either an M21 or M20 for the M40 and probably get a credit of $52 being the difference between the 4 speeds and the M40.

One big difference was the standard rear axle ratio: 2.56. This resulted in approx. 2400 RPM at 60 MPH.

Most options available for the 442 were also available on the Turnpike Cruiser 442 (see below).

Prior to 1968 the Turnpike Cruiser option was limited to the Cutlass. It was moved over to the 442 in 1968. I guess in 1968 style points counted for something.

One final note: The G92 Axle Package available on the 442 (3:42 rear) was not available on the 442 TC. But as a head scratcher, G88 3.91 rear was available. This required you to sub out the M40 for a M21 4 speed. The only mandatory option was V01: HD radiator.