The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham, a name synonymous with American automotive history, embodies the spirit of a bygone era. This full-size sedan, produced during a pivotal time in the automotive industry, represented a blend of classic styling and modern engineering.
While the Cutlass Supreme Brougham shared its platform with other General Motors vehicles, it carved its own niche with its distinctive design and comfortable interior. Its appeal transcended mere transportation; it offered a sense of luxury and sophistication, catering to a wide range of buyers seeking a reliable and stylish vehicle.
The 1987 model year marked a significant shift for the Cutlass Supreme Brougham. Oldsmobile, known for its traditional values, embraced a more contemporary approach with the Brougham. This shift was reflected in the car’s exterior design, featuring sharp lines and a more aerodynamic profile, while retaining the classic Cutlass Supreme’s signature grille and rear-end styling.
Inside, the Brougham offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, designed with the driver and passengers in mind. This combination of classic and modern elements made the 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
Overview of the 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham
The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham was a significant model in the automotive industry, representing a shift in design and engineering for the Oldsmobile brand. This model year marked the introduction of a new generation of the Cutlass Supreme, featuring a more aerodynamic body and a wider range of engine options.
The Brougham trim level, known for its luxurious features and refined styling, was a popular choice among buyers seeking a comfortable and well-equipped mid-size sedan.The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham was positioned within the Oldsmobile lineup as a premium offering, targeting a discerning audience seeking both style and comfort.
It competed directly with other popular mid-size sedans of the era, such as the Buick Regal, the Ford Thunderbird, and the Chevrolet Monte Carlo. The Brougham trim level, with its distinctive exterior and interior design, aimed to appeal to buyers who desired a more luxurious driving experience.
Exterior Styling
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham featured a sleek and aerodynamic exterior design, characterized by its low-slung profile and flowing lines. The front end featured a distinctive grille with horizontal bars, flanked by rectangular headlights and integrated turn signals. The Brougham trim level was further distinguished by its unique chrome accents, including the side moldings, window trim, and rear bumper.
Interior Design
The interior of the 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham was designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The dashboard featured a combination of woodgrain accents and soft-touch materials, while the seats were upholstered in plush fabrics or optional leather. The Brougham trim level included several standard features that enhanced the interior’s luxury appeal, such as power windows, power locks, and air conditioning.
Available Options
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham offered a wide range of available options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to meet their individual needs and preferences. Some of the most popular options included:
- Power sunroof
- Leather upholstery
- Cruise control
- AM/FM cassette stereo
- Rear window defroster
- Tilt steering wheel
- Anti-lock brakes
The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham represented a successful evolution of the Cutlass nameplate, combining stylish design, luxurious features, and reliable performance. The Brougham trim level, with its distinctive styling and well-appointed interior, appealed to a wide range of buyers seeking a comfortable and refined driving experience.
Engine and Performance
The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham offered a range of engine options, each catering to different performance and fuel economy needs. These engines were paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission, which was standard across all trim levels.
Engine Options
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham was available with three different engine options:
- 2.5L Iron Duke I4:This four-cylinder engine produced 90 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. It was the most fuel-efficient option, offering an estimated 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. This engine was designed to be fuel-efficient and was best suited for drivers who prioritize economy over performance.
- 3.8L Buick V6:This V6 engine was a more powerful option, producing 135 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. It offered a better balance of performance and fuel economy, with an estimated 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. This engine provided a good balance between fuel efficiency and performance, making it a popular choice for many buyers.
- 3.8L Buick V6 Turbocharged:This turbocharged V6 engine was the most powerful option, generating 170 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. It offered the most spirited performance but came with a slight fuel economy penalty, achieving an estimated 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
This engine was a popular choice for drivers who wanted the most power and performance out of their Cutlass Supreme Brougham.
Performance Characteristics
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham’s performance varied depending on the engine choice. The base 2.5L Iron Duke I4 engine provided adequate power for everyday driving, but it lacked the acceleration and passing power of the V6 options. The 3.8L Buick V6 offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall performance.
The turbocharged 3.8L V6 was the most potent option, providing a significant boost in power and acceleration, making it a fun and engaging driving experience.
Fuel Economy and Handling
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham was known for its decent fuel economy, particularly with the 2.5L Iron Duke I4 engine. However, the V6 options, especially the turbocharged model, saw a decrease in fuel efficiency. The handling was generally considered comfortable and predictable, with a smooth ride quality.
The car’s front-wheel-drive layout provided good traction in most conditions.
Interior and Features
The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham offered a comfortable and well-appointed interior, reflecting the luxury-oriented nature of the Brougham trim level. It was designed to provide a relaxing and enjoyable driving experience for both the driver and passengers.
Interior Design and Materials
The interior of the Cutlass Supreme Brougham featured a combination of plush materials and thoughtful design elements. The seats were typically upholstered in luxurious fabrics like velour or leather, providing a comfortable and supportive ride. The dashboard and door panels were often finished in woodgrain accents, adding a touch of elegance to the cabin.
The overall design aimed to create a spacious and inviting atmosphere, making the Cutlass Supreme Brougham a desirable choice for those seeking a comfortable and refined driving experience.
Seating Capacity and Comfort
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham was a four-door sedan, offering seating for five passengers. The front seats were designed for comfort and support, with ample legroom and headroom. The rear seats were also spacious and comfortable, providing ample room for passengers of average height.
The Brougham trim level often included features like power-adjustable seats and lumbar support, enhancing comfort levels for both the driver and passengers.
Available Technology and Entertainment Systems, 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham
While the 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham was not equipped with the advanced technology found in modern vehicles, it did offer a range of features designed to enhance the driving experience. The standard equipment included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player, allowing passengers to enjoy their favorite music while on the road.
Some models were also equipped with an optional rear window defroster, providing added convenience during colder months.
Safety and Reliability
The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham was a popular choice for families and individuals alike, and its safety and reliability were crucial factors in its appeal. While it was built during an era when safety standards were not as stringent as they are today, the Brougham incorporated several features designed to protect occupants in the event of an accident.
Safety Features
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham was equipped with standard safety features that were common for cars of its time. These included:
- Front disc brakes:These provided better stopping power than drum brakes, which were still common on many cars in the 1980s.
- Four-wheel independent suspension:This helped to improve handling and stability, especially in emergency situations.
- Safety belts:The Brougham featured lap belts for all passengers, with optional shoulder belts available for the front seats.
- Energy-absorbing steering column:This helped to reduce the risk of injury to the driver in a frontal collision.
- Side impact beams:These were designed to help protect occupants in the event of a side collision.
While these features provided a reasonable level of safety for the time, it’s important to note that the Brougham was not equipped with modern safety features like airbags or anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Reliability and Durability
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham was generally considered a reliable car, known for its durability and longevity. Its 3.8-liter V6 engine, while not particularly powerful, was known for its robustness and fuel efficiency. Many owners reported experiencing few mechanical issues, and the car’s reputation for reliability contributed to its popularity.
The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham, with its plush interior and distinctive styling, embodies the spirit of a bygone era in automotive design. This classic car, a symbol of American automotive craftsmanship, represents a time when driving was more than just transportation.
For those seeking a piece of automotive history, exploring the world of classic cars can be an exciting journey. The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham, with its distinctive grille and comfortable ride, remains a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts today.
However, like any vehicle, the Brougham was not immune to wear and tear, and some common issues included:
- Transmission problems:The automatic transmission in the Brougham could sometimes experience issues, particularly with age and high mileage.
- Electrical problems:Like many cars from the 1980s, the Brougham could be prone to electrical gremlins, particularly in the wiring harness.
- Rust:The Brougham, like many cars of its era, could be susceptible to rust, especially in areas with harsh climates.
Safety Ratings and Crash Test Results
It’s important to understand that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) did not conduct comprehensive crash tests or issue safety ratings for vehicles like the 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham. Therefore, no official safety ratings are available for this model.
While it’s challenging to find specific crash test results for the 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham, some independent sources have conducted limited assessments. These assessments generally suggest that the Brougham’s safety performance was on par with other vehicles of its time.
It’s crucial to remember that safety standards and testing procedures have evolved significantly since the 1980s. Therefore, it’s not appropriate to compare the safety of a 1987 Brougham directly to modern vehicles.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham, while not a revolutionary car, held a significant place in American automotive culture, representing a time of transition in the industry and a shift in consumer tastes. Its blend of comfort, style, and practicality resonated with a wide audience, solidifying its position as a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
Cultural Impact
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham, like many cars of its era, found its way into popular culture, appearing in films, television shows, and music videos. Its sleek design and luxurious features made it a desirable vehicle for characters who embodied success and affluence.
It became a symbol of the late 1980s, reflecting the era’s economic prosperity and cultural trends.
Legacy and Influence
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham’s legacy lies in its influence on subsequent Oldsmobile models and its role in shaping the brand’s identity. Its emphasis on comfort, style, and practicality became hallmarks of the Cutlass line, continuing to attract a loyal following.
The Brougham’s success paved the way for future generations of Oldsmobiles, contributing to the brand’s enduring popularity.
Comparison with Competitors
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham competed against a diverse range of mid-size cars, each offering its own unique blend of features and attributes. Here’s a comparison of the Brougham to some of its key rivals:
| Feature | 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham | 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L V6 (140 hp) | 5.0L V8 (150 hp) | 2.8L V6 (125 hp) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic | 4-speed automatic | 3-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway | 18 mpg city, 26 mpg highway | 20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway |
| Price | $12,000 | $14,000 | $10,000 |
| Interior Features | Power windows, power locks, air conditioning | Power windows, power locks, air conditioning | Power windows, power locks, air conditioning |
| Safety Features | Standard anti-lock brakes, driver’s side airbag | Standard anti-lock brakes, driver’s side airbag | Standard anti-lock brakes, driver’s side airbag |
The 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham, with its powerful V6 engine, comfortable interior, and a blend of practicality and style, positioned itself as a compelling option within the competitive mid-size car segment. Its success reflected the changing tastes of American car buyers and contributed to the legacy of the Oldsmobile brand.
Wrap-Up
The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham stands as a testament to a time when American automobiles were renowned for their comfort, style, and reliability. Although no longer in production, the Brougham continues to hold a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts, evoking nostalgia for a bygone era of automotive excellence.
Its legacy, however, extends beyond mere sentimentality. The Brougham’s design and engineering innovations paved the way for future generations of Oldsmobile models, leaving an indelible mark on the American automotive landscape. As we look back on the 1987 Cutlass Supreme Brougham, we recognize its significance as a symbol of a time when cars were more than just vehicles; they were an expression of American ingenuity and cultural identity.
