1978 Oldsmobile Toronado
Measuring about 226 inches in length, the 1978 Toronado marked the final year of the second-generation personal luxury coupe and the end of Oldsmobile’s truly full-size era before downsizing reshaped the lineup for 1979.
Front-wheel drive technology continued to distinguish the Toronado from most American competitors, with power routed through a three-speed automatic transmission derived from GM’s heavy-duty front-drive transaxle design.
Power came from Oldsmobile’s 403 cubic inch V-8, rated at 185 horsepower and approximately 320 lb-ft of torque. This engine had replaced the larger 455 V-8 for the 1977 model year as General Motors responded to tightening emissions and fuel economy requirements.
Quad rectangular headlights and revised exterior detailing reflected the model’s gradual evolution since its 1971 redesign, while concave side sculpting and high-mounted taillights remained defining visual cues of the generation.
A limited-production XS package added a wraparound bent-glass rear window and a power sliding moonroof, with 2,453 examples built for 1978. Optional Brougham trim emphasized luxury, offering velour or available leather upholstery, extensive power features, and simulated burled walnut interior trim.
Despite its imposing size and weight, the Toronado’s front-wheel drive layout delivered confident foul-weather traction and efficient interior packaging compared to traditional rear-wheel drive rivals such as the Lincoln Continental Mark V.
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