Picture yourself cruising through one of the upscale neighborhoods on Chicago’s North Side in your 2023 Honda Civic. You’re in an area near Wrigley Field, where craft beer joints seem to outnumber residents. You might think you’ve escaped the grime of the city’s less savory areas until a sight catches your eye at a stoplight: a 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham, resembling a George Romero zombie on wheels, slowly creeping past.
Despite nearly five decades of harsh winters and salt-laden roads, this car, affectionately known as the Chicago Cutlass, refuses to surrender. It’s become a local legend among car enthusiasts, surviving in a city notorious for its hostility towards older vehicles, especially in frigid climates.
But what exactly is this relic? The late 1970s were tough for the Oldsmobile Cutlass, and the fourth-generation Cutlass Supreme struggled, especially with the impact of emissions regulations. No longer the muscular American sports coupe of yore, it suffered from underpowered engines and notorious build quality issues.
Yet, against all odds, this rusty Chicago Cutlass endures, with its 260-cubic inch Oldsmobile V8 and worn-out interior bearing witness to its 400,000-plus miles on the road. Purchased by an eccentric YouTuber named Jon Kreuz, the car has become a local sensation, embodying the resilience of both Chicago and its inhabitants.
Kreuz plans to restore the Chicago Cutlass, preserving its genuine patina while rebuilding its drivetrain and addressing structural issues. Despite its decrepit appearance, this car symbolizes the indomitable spirit of Chicago, a city that refuses to yield, much like its beloved Cubs finally winning the World Series after 108 years.