What engine came in a 72 Cutlass Supreme?
The 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme could be equipped with two V8 engines: a 350 cubic inch (5.7 liter) V8 as the standard powerplant, and an optional 455 cubic inch (7.5 liter) big-block for more performance.
In the early 1970s, the Cutlass Supreme was the top trim of Oldsmobile’s Cutlass line, powered by the brand’s Rocket V8 family. This article explains which engines were offered for the 1972 model year and how they fit into the lineup.
Engine options for the 1972 Cutlass Supreme
The primary engine choices available in the 1972 Cutlass Supreme were:
- 350 cu in V8 (5.7 L), the standard engine on most Cutlass Supreme models
- 455 cu in V8 (7.5 L), an optional big-block engine for enhanced performance
These options reflect Oldsmobile’s focus on combining luxury and performance in the Cutlass Supreme, with the bigger 455 providing a noticeable boost in torque and acceleration compared with the base 350.
Additional context and year-to-year variation
Availability of specific engines could vary by production date, body style (two-door versus hardtop), and option packages. If you’re evaluating a particular car, check the option sticker or VIN plate to confirm the exact engine installed.
Summary
In brief, the 1972 Cutlass Supreme offered two V8 engines from Oldsmobile’s Rocket lineup: a standard 350 cu in V8 and an optional 455 cu in V8 for higher performance. The exact engine installed depended on the chosen options and production window for the vehicle.
