Say what you want about multi-page spreads from General Motors, Ford Motor Company and Chrysler Corporation – back when such ads placed the spotlight squarely on a particular line, or theme, of cars. Usually full of colorful, dramatic photography, each was backed by some list of standard or optional power stats (we’re talking muscle cars, here) and a very basic list of standard equipment (See your dealer for more details!).
Perhaps the most interesting of the lot, if not the most memorable, came from Oldsmobile late in the 1968 calendar year. The eight-page spread – featuring their good doctor, his friends and a couple of 1969 Cutlass-based coupes – was shot in basic black and white, and loaded with text that urged the dark side of your right foot to quickly visit a local dealer. There’s no telling how many potential buyers succumbed to the novel-like ad, which is a bit of a shame. But through the power of social networking, now you can tell us if, back in the day, the good doctor was able to convince you to visit an Olds showroom.
