It’s not uncommon to see consumer goods that are marketed with “satisfaction guaranteed.” But have you ever heard of a vehicle advertised that way? Oldsmobile was so confident in its final-generation Toronado that it promised buyers they’d love it. The Pick of the Day is a low-mileage 1991 Oldsmobile Toronado Trofeo coupe listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Cortland, New York.
The fourth-generation Toronado (sold from 1986-92) was a league of its own, at least cosmetically. Oldsmobile banked on the fact that people would appreciate its “out-there” design. One magazine advertisement said, “Sure, it’s possible to find another car this unique. It’s also possible that Halley’s comet will return tomorrow.”
This sleek Platinum Metallic Toronado definitely has an unmistakable silhouette. The seller says, “One owner since new. Very clean with no accident history.” Features include retractable headlights, black-finished side mirrors, full-width taillight design, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
The interior was designed to be a place of comfort and luxury. The car was optioned with Garnet Red upholstery, and features include bucket seats, center console, air conditioning, cruise control, power door locks, Delco six-speaker stereo, leather-wrapped steering wheel, Twilight Sentinel lighting, and Soft Ray tinted glass.
Under the hood is a 3.8-liter (known as the “3800”) V-6 that was rated at 170 horsepower. A four-speed automatic transaxle sends torque to the front wheels.
The window sticker shows that the car was originally delivered to Collins Oldsmobile of Indianapolis, Indiana following final assembly in Detroit. Its total vehicle price came out to $27,595, and the sticker itemized an AM/FM cassette stereo, 3.06:1 final drive ratio, and 3800 V6 as options. In addition, Oldsmobile added several line items at the end for what it called “The Oldsmobile Edge” (at no extra charge):
- Guaranteed Satisfaction (Retail Sales Only)
- Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty
- 24-Hour Roadside Assistance
It kind of makes you wonder how Oldsmobile’s “satisfaction guaranteed” promise held up. Was it a money-back sort of deal? Maybe someone in the reader audience was lucky enough to buy one of these new 35 years ago and can remember the fine print.
The asking price for this satisfying personal luxury coupe is just $8,500.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
