This 1972 Olds Cutlass 4-4-2 “Hamilton” was custom-built for “The Prince of Motor City” TV movie back in 2008.
Although it lives in Wisconsin today, this customized ‘72 Oldsmobile 4-4-2 “Hamilton” survived in great condition because it spent the early years of its life in sunny and dry Southern California. The rust-free car launched off the starting line at area dragstrips for a short time, before launching its Hollywood acting career.
A television show named “The Prince of Motor City” was being considered by the ABC-TV network. Actor Warren Christie was selected to play Billy Hamilton, a character who was the son of an automotive legend and worked for a fictitious automaker named Hamilton Motors.
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The production company selected this car to be one of three vehicles that it planned to customize for appearances in the show. A design team was hired to restyle the car. The body styling was modified and a two-tone burgundy and gray paint job was applied.
The Hamilton name was added to the car’s modified grille and large bright metal badges with big red H’s were affixed to the front fenders. The Hamilton name was also spelled out across the rear of the car and triple-segmented taillights with a trapezoid shape were created. The car also had hood locking pins, air scoops, styled wheels, a rear deck lid spoiler, racing stripes, racing style outside rearview mirrors and an unusual angular rear bumper.
The pilot for the show was aired and the 4-4-2 had its moment of fame. However, as luck would have it, the series itself was cancelled. At that time, two other Hamiltons were in the process of being built. Those cars were never completed. The TV production team sent them to the crusher instead.
This car, which was completed, was consigned to one of Dana Mecum’s classic car auctions. That’s where the current owners purchased the 4-4-2. Today, they enjoy driving their one-of-a-kind Oldsmobile and report getting smiles and “thumbs up” signals from other motorists who pass them on the road.
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