The 1968 Oldsmobile Toronado AQC Jetway 707 is an automotive marvel that stands out in the history of American engineering. This large, unconventional limousine was designed to carry passengers in style and comfort, providing a glimpse into a time when travel was seen as an event, not just a means to get from one place to another. With its striking proportions and a unique design, the Jetway 707 is not only a vehicle but a symbol of innovation and the golden age of American manufacturing.
The Jetway 707: A Design Like No Other
The 1968 Oldsmobile Toronado AQC Jetway 707 was built using the platform of the 1968-1970 Oldsmobile Toronado, a front-wheel-drive vehicle, which provided the foundation for this unique airport shuttle. The wheelbase was extended significantly from 119 inches to an extraordinary 185 inches, and the roof was raised for extra headroom. The design also included two additional axles at the rear, making it the first of its kind in stretched limousines. These modifications were made to accommodate up to 15 passengers, offering not only space but a comfortable ride, including individual seats for all passengers and room for luggage.
The Jetway 707’s design pays homage to the Boeing 707, reflecting the era’s fascination with aviation. The unique features were meant to enhance the experience of travelers as they made their way to and from airports, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s when air travel was still seen as an upscale experience.
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Watch this video as we pick up our wildest car to date, the 1968 Jetway 707, part 1!
Specifications and Performance: A True Behemoth
The massive size of the Jetway 707 necessitated a powerful drivetrain to support its impressive weight and performance requirements. Powered by a 455 cubic-inch V8 engine, this limousine generated 375 horsepower, which was directed to the front wheels to provide maximum control. Despite its enormous proportions, the vehicle was designed with passenger comfort in mind, utilizing front-wheel drive to ensure a flat floor and enhanced interior space.
The Jetway 707 was more than just a ride; it was a statement. With over 100 square feet of cargo space and a robust drivetrain, it was tailor-made to transport a large group of passengers quickly and comfortably, especially in an airport setting.
The Rarity of the Jetway 707: A True Collector’s Item
Only 52 units of the Jetway 707 were ever built, making it a rare and valuable piece of automotive history. The vehicle was produced by the now-defunct American Quality Coach Company, based in northeastern Arkansas. This limited production run was the result of both financial constraints and a limited demand for such a large and specialized vehicle.
Today, the Jetway 707 remains a rarity, with only a handful still in existence. These remaining vehicles are scattered across the United States and beyond, with known examples located in Southern Ohio, Wisconsin, California, Canada, and even a museum overseas. While some remain in storage, the exact number of these iconic vehicles still intact is difficult to determine, as many have been lost to time or disrepair.
The Legacy: From Airport Shuttle to Collector’s Item
The Jetway 707 served an important role in airport transportation throughout the 1960s and 1970s, particularly around the Detroit Metro Airport. After its initial service, it continued to ferry passengers, including high-level executives, between hotels and the airport, until it was eventually retired in the early 1980s. Its journey didn’t end there; the vehicle changed ownership a few times, each owner adding their own chapter to the Jetway’s story. One of the more interesting moments in its history came when it was given the nickname “Centipede” during its time as a service limousine in the 1990s, though the origin of the name remains a mystery.
In the late 1990s, the vehicle passed to a new owner who maintained it until its final days on the road in the mid-2000s. After being out of service for years, the vehicle remained in storage until it was purchased by Cleveland Power & Performance in recent years. The restoration process has been an ongoing project, as the company aims to bring this rare vehicle back to its former glory.
Restoration and Preservation: A Labor of Love
Cleveland Power & Performance is committed to restoring this incredible piece of automotive history. Given the vehicle’s age and condition, the restoration process has been both a challenge and a passion for the team. Their goal is not only to bring the Jetway 707 back to life but also to preserve a critical part of Detroit’s automotive heritage. The restoration will involve significant work, including structural repairs, engine diagnostics, and cosmetic touch-ups.
At present, the full extent of the restoration remains uncertain, as the team continues to assess the car’s needs. However, the intention is clear: this vehicle will be preserved as an emblem of American automotive innovation, and once restored, it will likely make a triumphant return to the road.
Video
Watch this video for a history and walk-around of the 1968 AQC Jetway 707 Airport Shuttle, part 2!
The Future: Preserving a Forgotten Era
The Jetway 707 stands as a testament to a bygone era when craftsmanship and ingenuity were central to American automotive design. The vehicle’s rarity and historical significance make it an important part of car culture, not only in the U.S. but also in the global automotive community. As the restoration project progresses, the team at Cleveland Power & Performance remains dedicated to sharing their journey and preserving the legacy of this extraordinary vehicle.
As the team continues their work, they are eager to connect with others who may have more information or photos of the Jetway 707 from its time in Detroit or elsewhere. They invite any enthusiasts or collectors with knowledge of the vehicle to share their experiences and contribute to the preservation of this important piece of American history.
