Head gasket killed the car at 203,000 miles.
A/C didn't work.
Seat wear.
Leaky skylight in the roof (typical for that model).
Rust over the rear wheels.
Very reliable car.
Seated 8 in nearly total comfort.
Smooth ride.
Large cargo area.
Would cruise at 100mph all day.
Loose handling typical of a late 1960's station wagon.
Distinctive-looking with roof glass.
Excellent in snow or other slippery conditions due to all the heavy glass in the rear - could go where 4x4's fear to tread.
Horrible gas mileage typical of cars of that era.
This review is of my 2nd 1969 Vista Cruiser.
Wish I still had my dad's 1971 Vista. 350 V8 2bbl. Great car, but it swilled leaded fuel.
We traded it for a rice burned that rusted out in 4 winters.
I bought the best car I have ever owned, 1969 Olds Vista Cruiser, which I traded for the worst car I have ever had, a 1975 Cutlass Supreme.
I own a '69 Vista, and its one of the best things I've ever had. A 350/400TH with 376,000-odd miles on it, (over 100,000 of them done by us) it has proved itself virtually unstoppable. I've done many updates/upgrades, as it used to be a logger's crummy. We've put several sets of new tires on it, as well as all new suspension, brakes, new motor, new interior, new paint, but the original, untouched transmission is still in the car. AWESOME CAR! I'm looking for another. Mike.
I think all these Cutlass wagons are just great. My favorites are 68-72. A bit hard on gas, but a comfortable ride. Maintain them properly, and they last forever. I made one 442 wagon out of a 72 "flattop" Cutlass wagon (ram air hood incl), and what an eyecatcher. Everybody asked me about that car, even women in store parking lots. It was cool. I am now doing my second one, another "1972 flattop", as I like them best. Without the roof windows, they have a low lie appearance to them, then add the Ram Air Hood, and a set of 442 grilles, rallye wheels, etc., and what a cool ride. It's like the first SUV's of the 60's & 70's. You can have a large motor, posi rear, room for weekend baggage, & tow a trailer too. It would be nice to see more of these out there. If you are doing one, and need Cutlass wagon parts, try me 941 365 3023. Thanks, Eric.
I am trying to fine a vista cruiser that has thesemi rasiedroof with windows don't know to find one.
They pop up on ebay quite often if you are looking for one or try cars-on-line dot com too.
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