Oldsmobile Toronado Third Generation 1979–1985
| Third generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Overview | |
| Production | 1978–1985 |
| Model years | 1979–1985 |
| Layout | Longitudinal front-engine, front-wheel drive |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 252 cu in (4.1 L) Buick V6 307 cu in (5.0 L) Oldsmobile V8 350 cu in (5.7 L) Oldsmobile V8 350 cu in (5.7 L) Oldsmobile diesel V8 |
| Transmission | 3-speed TH325 automatic 4-speed TH325-4L automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 114 in (2,896 mm) |
| Length | 204 in (5,182 mm) |
| Width | 80 in (2,032 mm) |
The third generation Toronado was substantially downsized, losing nearly 1,000 lb (450 kg) and more than 20 in (510 mm) in length.
Reflecting its 206 in (5,200 mm) length and 114 in (2,900 mm) wheelbase, it came equipped with the smaller Oldsmobile 350 cu in (5.7 L) V8. The engine was rated at 170 HP/270 lb.ft. torque giving it a top speed of 110+ mph (177 k) and a 0–60 mph acceleration time of 9.4 seconds. This was considered one of the faster times for that era.
A 307 cu in (5.03 L) V8 (140 HP) was introduced in 1980, and a larger 252 cu in (4.13 L) version of the Buick V6(125 HP) was made available from 1981 to 1984, but it proved unpopular due to its slow acceleration.
Also offered in these years was Oldsmobile's new diesel V8, that is based on (but mistakenly said to be converted from) Olds' well-regarded gasoline-powered 350 cu in (5.7 L) V8, but with added block material. This engine was novel and economical, and sales were initially good. The diesel conversion acquired a terrible mechanical reputation, becoming a genuine black eye for Oldsmobile. Many cars which originally came diesel-equipped were eventually converted to gasoline engines when disgusted owners finally threw in the towel. The engine was revised through its life, which fixed many issues that hurt its reputation, but it was too late and the engine was eventually dropped.
The three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was standard equipment from 1979 to 1981 and replaced by the four-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 325-4L overdrive unit from 1982 to 1985. The 307 cubic-inch Rocket V8 was standard on 1985 Toronados.
Independent rear suspension (designed by Cadillac engineers) was adopted for the new car, which helped to increase usable rear-seat and trunk space in the smaller body, as well as improved handling over previous Toronados with no sacrifice in ride quality. Rear disc brakes were optional.
In addition to the base Toronado Brougham, various trim packages were available under the XSC (1980–81) and Caliente (1984–85) names were offered along with choices of velour, leather upholstery, even sueded leather inserts and digital instrumentation. The XSC offered individual front bucket seats, as opposed to the traditional split bench front seat usually installed. The third-generation Toronado was also made into convertibles by the American Sunroof Company, with a power-operated cloth top. Reclining backrests were an option.
This Toronado, along with its Riviera and Eldorado cousins, were the last body-on-frame, front wheel drive cars with longitudinally mounted V8 engines.