Which Oldsmobiles Have a Manual Transmission?
Oldsmobile has five cars with manual transmissions: Alero, Cutlass
Calais and Supreme, Starfire, and F-85.
Written by Cassandra Hamilton
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Oldsmobile ended production in 2004, but you can still find many of their used models today. Oldsmobile offered five cars with manual transmissions: Alero, Cutlass Calais, Cutlass Supreme, Starfire SX Sport, and F-85.
It’s easy for a car enthusiast to decide between
manual and automatic transmissions
: manual all the way! Unfortunately for these purists, 99% of new cars sold in 2019 were automatics. They might have to make a big change someday.Car insurance
comparison shopping expert Jerry
is here to help all manual transmission lovers find the perfect stick shift car. You’ll even save money on your insurance premium. Below, we’ll go over five stick shift Oldsmobile models that you can buy used and how you can lower your Oldsmobile car insurance costs
.
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Does Oldsmobile still make a manual?
No. Oldsmobile went out of production in 2004, so you won’t be able to find any new models of these manual transmission cars. However, you can definitely find them used if you know where to look. Oldsmobile produced five models with manual transmissions: the Alero, Cutlass Calais, Cutlass Supreme, Starfire SX Sport, and the F-85.
If you’re interested in one of these
classic cars
, you should move fast. Due to the lack of new models, these cars are limited in availability and will one day become collectibles. It may be more difficult down the line to get your hands on one. MORE: How to drive stick or manual cars
Alero
The
Alero
has the distinction of being the last Oldsmobile model produced. This car was in production from 1999 to 2004. It was available in three trim levels, all of which you can find today if you look hard enough.The Oldsmobile Alero 2.4 has a naturally aspirated inline 4-cylinder engine. It’s perfect for getting around town.
The engine maxes out at 150 horsepower and has a max torque of 210.0. The Alero also has front-wheel drive and a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Cutlass Calais
The Cutlass Calais was available between 1985 and 1991, making it a great choice for any classic car collector. It was originally produced as a two-door, but later models had a four-door option as well.
The Cutlass Calais is a racy little number with a top speed of 125 mph. It has a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine with a maximum power of 181 horsepower and a five-speed manual transmission.
One Cutlass Calais was auctioned off in 2021 for over $8,000, so don’t delay getting yours.
Cutlass Supreme
The
Cutlass Supreme
was top-of-the-line for Oldsmobile. It was produced from 1966 to 1997 and retained its mid-century charm throughout its lifetime. It saw many different iterations—from convertible to station wagon—and remained one of Oldsmobile’s top sellers.Specs range due to the lifespan of this car, but in later models, you’ll hit a top speed of 125 mph. The Cutlass Supreme II has a 5.7 V8 engine with a maximum power of 310 hp.
It hits the road with rear-wheel drive and a three-speed manual gearbox.
Starfire SX Sport
Talk about a classic—the Oldsmobile Starfire SX Sport saw two different production times: 1960 to 1966 and again from 1974 to 1980. Collectors looking to get their hands on one of the most popular cars of the time won’t want to pass up this model.
Cars are faster now, but the Starfire SX Sport had an impressive top speed for its day: 106 mph. This sporty coupe can generally be found with a 5.0-liter V8 engine.
This classic model features rear-wheel drive and a four-speed manual gearbox.
F-85
If you’re looking to purchase a classic mid-century car on a budget, the Oldsmobile F-85 is a must-have. This style was produced from 1961 to 1971 and can be found for less than $10,000 today if you’re willing to do some repairs.
The F-85 features a naturally aspirated V8 engine and produces 315 horsepower. It uses rear-wheel drive and a three-speed manual gearbox.
Benefits and drawbacks of a manual transmission
Ask a group of car enthusiasts, “manual or automatic?” and you’re sure to spur a heated debate. But maybe you’re one of the few whose mind still isn’t made up in this classic dispute. If that’s the case, we’ve compiled a pros and cons list for you to look over.
Don’t forget that there are drawbacks, though! These cons are definitely worth keeping in mind before making your next car purchase.
- Con: Stop-and-go traffic can be a nightmare
- Con: There aren’t as many people able to teach you how to drive this challenging transmission
Plus, unless you’re willing to buy a used car, it’s tough to find a new car with a manual transmission. In 2021, only
27 car models in the U.S.
were produced with manual gearboxes.Key Takeaway Manual transmissions may be cheaper and more fun, but they’re hard to find and drive.
How to find affordable Oldsmobile insurance
Low car insurance rates are essential no matter what kind of transmission you have, especially if you need classic car coverage. Luckily,
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Patricia W.
Reviewed on 5/28/2023
FAQs
Is a manual or an automatic better?
There’s no real right or wrong answer here because it all depends on you, the driver. Manual
transmissions do have benefits, like lower purchase prices and repair costs in addition to being fun to drive.
Is a manual transmission Oldsmobile more reliable?
One thing Oldsmobile was known for during its heyday was its reliability. There are fewer parts that can break on a car with a manual transmission, so yes! They are definitely reliable cars.
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