The 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado was a big hit when it was released. However, Oldsmobile changed course with its second generation of the Toro (1971–1978), promoting it from a sport-luxury coupe to a full-fledged luxury cruiser.
With a wheelbase of 122 inches instead of 119, an overall length of 221 inches, and a basic price of approximately $5,400, the Oldsmobile flagship model cost hundreds more than the Ninety-Eight Luxury Sedan.
The front-drive coupe had only modest design changes for ’72, the second year of the product cycle, but it was clearly the appropriate car for the moment, as sales rocketed to nearly 49,000 units, the Toronado’s best year to date.
The same well-known 455 cubic-inch V8 and Turbo-Hydramatic 425 front-drive unit powered the vehicle in 1972, however the large Rocket V8’s 350 horsepower was reduced to 250 horsepower as a result of the industry’s adoption of the SAE net rating standard in that year. (A new California law prompted the change.)
Performance enthusiasts were not overlooked, as the Toronado continued to deliver a smooth and powerful driving experience. Despite the reduction in horsepower to comply with new regulations, the Toronado’s handling and ride comfort remained exceptional, making it a favorite among luxury car enthusiasts.
The interior of the Toronado was meticulously crafted to provide a luxurious driving experience. Plush upholstery, wood-grain accents, and advanced instrumentation created an opulent ambiance within the cabin. Notably, the ’72 Toronado introduced innovative features such as an electronic digital clock, showcasing Oldsmobile’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into their vehicles.
It may seem strange to buyers of modern cars that extra-cost extras like air conditioning, electric windows, and power seats were available instead of standard equipment. One clever afterthought was an additional pair of tail lamps positioned behind the back windshield, hinting to the center-high-mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) that became required in accordance with federal legislation in 1986.
The concise dealer clip provided below offers a captivating showcase of the Toronado’s distinctive features, providing a detailed glimpse into its luxurious design and innovative attributes.
