Designing the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado - Part 2 (with designer Dick Ruzzin)

Learn more about the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado's design development in this interview with Dick Ruzzin, former junior designer in Oldsmobile studio during the Toronado's development and later design director of Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Opel studios.
You can purchase a copy of Dick's book, Bella Mangusta, here:
www.amazon.com/Bella-Mangusta...

[@errorsofmodernism7331]

These interviews with the designers are the best feature, I love listening to their play by play of who said what and how they approached the design and executed the idea. Please interview as much as possible these older guys before it's too late. The Toronado is a masterpiece of design, it will still look great in 100 years.

[@cardo1111]

Indeed.

[@bobhill3941]

Very well said, I feel the same way. These unique perspectives need to be preserved. I find this insider knowledge and technical analysis of the design fascinating and informative. I've always loved the rear of the first generation Toronado, it reminds me of the rear of the 1978-81 Camaro/Firebird without the spoiler!

[@averyparticularsetofskills]

Absolutely

[@scooterp7009]

Amen.

[@thomastoler2397]

@@bobhill3941I like how the taillights mirror the grille on both the ‘67 & ‘68 Toros.

[@mikevale3620]

Adam...you shouldn't have let Dick go home so early...what a fantastic lesson in car design from the pinnacle age of US car design.

[@RareClassicCars]

Dick will be back

[@junktionfet]

Wow Adam, this interview with Dick Ruzzin is outstanding! What a great guy and brilliant designer! Let him know we love his work and the time he took to share this history with you and us

[@ppeller3]

Adam, we need more of these interviews. This truly takes us into the trenches of how these cars became so iconic! 👊🏻👍🏻🇺🇲

[@fleetwin1]

Thanks Mr. Ruzzin for spending time with us. These cars were GM at its best for sure

[@nthused]

One of the most beautiful automobiles ever created. A shame what they did with it after this year. Change for the sake of change is not a substitute for a good vision.

[@garybezner6774]

Glad you raised the fact that, later changes ruined all the charms of the 1966 model, in fact it became ugly and ungainly.

[@loumontcalm3500]

Floored me at the 1966 LA Auto Show. Saw the Cord influence even as a teen

[@DanEBoyd]

"Barbell" theme? I've never heard that term before, but know exactly what it means. And I dig that theme as well!!👍

[@winthropthurlow3020]

I love these discussions with the designers, please keep them coming. All three cars are beautiful, but none is wilder and more space-age than the Oldsmobile. It's just stunning!

[@2packs4sure]

It's a damn shame the man can't remember any details. lol Amazing and much appreciated Adam ! I could watch this inside baseball stuff all day long especially with a guy who remembers every conversation,,, incredible !!

[@alanbuck9237]

I like how he basically mentions that they changed the 67 for the sake of change. To me it was a complete downgrade of the 1966 look. The recessed headlights look a lot more interesting than the flush 1967 design, and the egg crate grill did nothing for the lines of the car in 67. I have pondered buying one of these for many years, but it would have to be a 66. I feel the 66 is vastly superior looking the very similar 67. Yours is in one of the very best colors as well. Absolutely gorgeous car! Thank you for making these videos.

[@jakereal3604]

Alan I agree 1000% I owb a 66 Toronado and feel that the 67 while not drastically different it lost the pure and sporty character of the 66. I particularly hate vinyl tops on the 67 though I know they offered it to make the car a bit more conventional to appeal to more buyers. I bought my 66 Toronado Fall of 1984 !!! We're getting old together! LOL

[@jasoncarpp7742]

Beautiful looking car. 1966 is my favourite year for the Olds Toronado.

[@michaelnault5905]

Listening to Dick Ruzzin was a real treat. Great pair of videos!

[@kobbetop]

These interviews are the best. Great to hear stories from the actual designers back in the day. And this particular one goes back to 60’s so it’s even more amazing that Dick here remembered so much of the details like it was yesterday. I’d like to hear more, especially about how the 1991 Caprice came to be. That’s also a vehicle which shared a lot of components with Cadillac, Oldsmobile and Buick. And it was done so that especially on the Cadillac, the average guy probably didn’t notice.

[@Chopski64]

I could listen to gentlemen like this for hours. The knowledge. The history. They lived it.

[@SeaTravelr123]

It’s like a great gossip session on the cars. Thank you for such a great set of insights. ❤

[@flyonbyya]

Very very informative & interesting interview! He’s the type of interview where the host just sits back and let’s the guest go…remarkable

[@OLDS98]

Thank Adam for bringing in another designer( Dr. Dick Ruzzin) and bringing in the discussion of the Toronado. It is so interesting to learn they shared so much, but looked so different. There was so much that was so interesting. I liked the details between all three E Bodies. It now makes sense why the 1979-1985 E Bodies were the way they were and it worked. It was influenced by what happened in the 1960's. I do thank you so much Adam.

[@steveoh9838]

Fascinating information. Now it is documented for future car enthusiast to enjoy and wonder of a time long gone. Bravo gentlemen👍👍

[@mercoid]

Fascinating history lesson from the inside man. Incredible. Great work Adam!

[@johnsorensen2088]

My all time favorite. Shows the best in Autumn Bronze, too.

[@gene978]

Incredible Interview. I hope he comes back with more stories. Thank You Adam

[@michaelmullard4292]

That was just awesome! No other words required.

[@gordonborsboom7460]

This is absolutely what this channel deserves..in-person accounts of actual hands-on individuals from the time of the creation of these icons. Can you find some of the engineers?

[@RareClassicCars]

Unfortunately, the chief engineer passed away in 1972

[@matthewpaanotorres7309]

@@RareClassicCars That’s sad to hear.

[@RareClassicCars]

@@matthewpaanotorres7309sadly, many are now deceased. Many of these designers are in their mid 80s or 90s now and some have memories that have faded. But, as you can see, Dick’s memory is fantastic, and he’s just as passionate now as ever. A gem of a guy.

[@matthewpaanotorres7309]

@@RareClassicCars Even more sad to hear, buddy. It is a real shame that most of those good people are now dead…

[@maniacjack3700]

Awesome interview! So many interesting details from so interesting times.

[@DSP1968]

What a pleasure to hear from one of the designers of the Toronado! Thank you, Adam.

[@ricksand6477]

These three E bodies are arguably GM design at the height of their power to produce beautiful automotive design that captivated people the world over. While all of them are still mesmerizing to behold - particularly with the restricted, regulated, small, constipated designs of new vehicles we have today - the Toronado is the one that still looks the freshest. When it comes to design of any kind, simpler is usually better and the Olds has the cleanest appearance. Each line is deftly placed just right. Mr. Ruzzin's explanation about the rear quarter and the last changes made to the clay which produced that great design feature is a case in point. The 1966 Toronado still looks like the car of the future in 2023. Thank you so much for this insight and unknown history: you really made my day!

[@manthony225]

So great to have the perspective of someone who was there. Thanks for doing this!

[@dannyg6592]

Such an incredible gift to be able to watch and hear from a design legend. I've always loved the '66 Toronado, and I am now convinced it is not only the finest styling exercise of the three, but also one of GM's best designs ever. Thank you for this great episode.

[@Primus54]

The access you have to these historical figures from the era of the best American car designs really sets your channel apart, Adam. And while I love your ‘66 Toronado and ‘67 El Dorado, I’d still pick that Buick Riviera out of the three as my favorite. Cheers. 👍👍👍

[@GadgetyMV]

Truly automotive history, highly interesting to hear about it great detail. Thank you for bringing Dick Ruzzin on to document it in person. That Toronado rear design looks like it inspired the 2nd gen Pontiac Firebird, in particular the 1974 model year.

[@reubkam1043]

These interviews are priceless. Thank you Adam.

[@goodkarmechanic]

Great videos Adam, thanks for asking Dick to explain the subtleties of the designs of these beautiful cars. Very informative. My 68 Cutlass S convertible definitely continues the wheel arch theme that was begun on the Toronado!

[@jakereal3604]

What a Treat! I can listen to Dick talk for hours. Hes the type of guy I'd meet at a party and think was the coolest guy and grab a beer and just LISTEN to his stories and knowledge. GOD Bless him this car was 57+ years ago and its' developement a few years before that. That said he must be in his early 80s or late 70s and the least. A true inspiration that one can be sharp at an older age and in good shape. Keep up the Good Work Dick!! God bless. Adam thank YOU what a treat being the owner of one of these since 1984 I like that the 66 Toronado is being kept relevant. I think Jay Lenos Corvette RWD modded Toronado brought this back into the spot light a while back.

[@edwinmassie]

I find these interviews utterly fascinating! Many thanks, Adam!

[@cclarke6]

That interview was great! Thanks for making these designer interviews.

[@THROTTLEPOWER]

😍Beautiful '66 Toronado!!!!!!!!!!!👍

[@johnz8210]

Excellent video. Mr. Ruzzin is great to listen to. I'd really like to hear the decision process with the 3/4 frame, but I assume everybody involved with that is long gone.

[@travis361]

Loved the presentation!! So interesting about how the Toronado was created!! It is so awesome that the Toronado is getting the attention it deserves. It seems like they are growing in popularity which is really great to see! Love it!!

[@billmagorian490]

Adam you are doing an amazing job of interviewing these seminal designers of some of the most beautiful cars ever created. They will soon be gone and you will have saved their first hand insights into these classic cars. A big thank You!

[@loveisall5520]

I'm old enough to remember when the Mangusta came out and it was stunning. Always thought the Pantera was watered down. Thanks so much for this great interview!

[@bendeleted9155]

I sure miss those days when cars were treated as art and they changed every year. It wasn't always good, but it was definitely more interesting. Thanks for memorializing the heyday of American cars with interviews like this. 👍

[@Lasuvidaboy-jp4xe]

Fantastic walk-around comparison with Mr Dick Ruzzin. Thanks for inviting this amazing designer.

[@terrancesweeney1870]

Outstanding Adam! Thank you and Dick for a great interview.

[@fourdoorglory5945]

Amazing interview with great history. SOOH glad this interview was done to document automotive design history with a man who was there!! Simply outstanding. Thanks Adam!

[@jeffgann6613]

From their inception, these cars pushed the envelope in both engineering and styling. Thanks for a look behind the scenes. Great video 👍👍

[@destry232]

What a great interview---would live to see Dick make another appearance. Thanks Adam!

[@user-vg6mp9ms7w]

Adam, I echo the comments of others regarding interviews with these incredible designers like Dick. I was 12-13 years old when these cars were introduced and, having loves cars since as long as I remember, these intereviews are incredibly special.

[@aaronrogers7692]

Intriguing what goes into the design process. Thanks for the rare glimpse into the world of auto design from this time period of masterpieces.

[@fabiohaeser8742]

Congratulations to Adam, what a great video! Long and healthy life to Dick Ruzzin, salute from Brazil.

[@jasonhunt007]

One of the best videos of this channel. I could listen to Mr. Ruzzin talk about his part in car design history all day long. Thanks.

[@alecfromminnenowhere2089]

Wow... what a great idea to have him show what went on during the design. This video is for the ages.

[@Sedan57Chevy]

GM design was an amazing cast of characters. I'm so glad that not only so many of these talented gentleman are still around, and that they're talking and sharing their stories. What an amazing bunch of talented visionaries. I have to admit, the Toro has never spoken to me the same way the eldorado or riv had, but your coverage has uncovered and highlighted so much of the fascinating design. Dick made an excellent point about the wheel arches allowing the vehicle to be otherwise narrower overall. The front fenders, sans the flare, are really impressively massive blade style fenders with slab sides. Just a really pretty shape, with how the fender shape goes the length of the car. Also, ive always preferred the look of the 67 front design without the headlight slats, but it does absolutely give a bit of design relation to the other Oldsmobiles and their prominent barbell front and rear ends.

[@killercan10]

Cool to hear it from Mr. Ruzzin. Dean's Garage (if anyone hasn't visited that website you should) has a piece on the Toronado from 2013 with some great pictures to go with it. Great to hear more details on the Toronado program.

[@markdc1145]

Another amazing video! 2 of the finest GM coupes AND explained by the man who designed them. What more could you ask for? Adam, you continue to knock it out of the park!👏👍✨

[@d5352]

Great and very much appreciated interview Adam. If you recall, we chatted about these stunning cars... opined that probably no one involved with their design was still around. Happily you found Mr. Ruzzin.......kudos sir.

[@mopartony7953]

Thank you for making this video. Invaluable historical information & styling insight for casual enthusiasts and series collectors, alike.

[@dosgos]

The Toronado's wheel arches were picked up by Opel in the 90s. The flat 5cm surrounding the wheels was advertised as an aerodynamic feature. Opel was more subtle but it looked great!

[@williamstachour4019]

The Toronado is just legendary. A one-off. I had a '70 Riv and loved it, but the Olds was just something else. A golden age of design in the US auto industry.

[@r.s.7462]

It’s a real pleasure to get the perspective of the actual original designer. Special thanks to Mr. Ruzzin for his insight.

[@jeffreycampbell5757]

It is fascinating to hear the "creator's" take on some of the most beautifully designed American cars ever! As a child of the 60's, I can't help but smile at the creativity and talent that went into these cars. Thanks for the interview.

[@ericlocastro220]

These interviews are invaluable! More of these great designers

[@billwood6168]

Excellent interview

[@sydrider6023]

The Olds design is just spectacular. The two other ones body lines are not coming close to the Olds imo. What a nice vids to watch and I will certainly watch it again.

[@coldwarmotors]

Thank you both so much for this fascinating interview! So cool to hear some "behind the scenes" about one of my favourite cars... Now I want one even more! Cheers from Canada.

[@SSV-i-c-e]

The more i see toronados the more i want one!!!🇳🇿

[@danielulz1640]

Thank you both. That was just wonderful.

[@michaelwitas9482]

What a great interview. Mr Ruzzin does a wonderful job of explaining things. Perhaps you can feature him in some future interviews about other GM cars that he was involved in.

[@markbehr88]

Excellent review and good to hear about David North and the other designers and how they influenced the appearance. I have a gold 66 and it is one of the best looking US cars ever made.

[@joemazzola7387]

This man must be in his 80 s He looks like he's in his 60s and how he can recall events from my guess would be 1962 is amazing

[@edwardpate6128]

My current office location at the Tech Center is on the SW corner of Manufacturing B right by the lake and the stainless water tower. Looking out the windows on the South side of the room we have a great view of the Design Center across the lake. I'm really proud when I set this area up to get what I call our Million Dollar View of a place where so much great GM history occurred.

[@mrluckyuncle]

Priceless history :-)

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

Adam I really enjoy the interviews , learn so much from your channel and love your car collection tell people there is more to cars than muscle cars ... mike YTCSG

[@severinjohn]

Dick came unto the GM design world as a young engineer at exactly the right time to provide us with this retrospective.. Amazing interview. I am purchasing Bella Mangusta as we speak

[@TalismanPHX]

Adam, excellent interview. This was fantastic. Thanks 😊

[@mrluckyuncle]

This interview is a treasure!

[@ashleygordon3467]

Fantastic interview Adam. I can’t think of anywhere else where content like this exists. That Red Rendering car was superb!

[@markmaiello9180]

Can’t stop listening to these 2 videos…What an articulate gentleman. This is hands down your best design interview yet. Time to put Mark together with Dick to discuss design in general, the Toro again or other cars…Well done.

[@BarryTsGarage]

Excellence in every way, Adam!

[@pontiaccrest]

All three are absolutely gorgeous cars!

[@dosgos]

Thank you Dick. I learned a lot about design today!

[@daveallen8824]

I think the best front end result would be the 67 with the 66 grille

[@rondenny]

My uncle had a ‘66 Toronado exactly like this one. Being 11 at the time, I was mesmerized by the styling which looked rather “unearthly.” This was a fascinating peek behind the curtain on how these classic designs were created and shaped. Outstanding interview. Well done!

[@jimmikrut007]

I grew up in between Oldsmobile and Fisher Body in Lansing, I remember a neighbor who worked for Oldsmobile having a 66 Toronto, and I fell in love with it I was 6 years old ❤

[@niyois]

I love car design and this is one of the most amazing videos I have seen, featuring some of the most iconic cars of the 60s with comments from the actual designer himself. Please, can we have more of these?

[@RareClassicCars]

I wish more of Dick’s peers were still around-or had his memory. He’s a peach of a guy.

[@61rampy65]

Oh, how things have changed! GM was demanding that the Olds, Buick and Cadillac look completely different? They went from 3 gorgeous designs to being the badge engineering king, especially in the 80's. I would say that the 3 cars in the driveway there were nothing less than stunning. Can you say that about any semi-affordable today? Thank you, Adam, for putting out such great videos!

[@christianbugatticg]

Man I can see this Toronado in my collection of classics right now!! On the hunt for one just like this buy must have cold factory air!! GREAT videos as usual!

[@RobertKarlBerta]

I am pleased to see such a great article about a great designer. I have been blessed with knowing Dick personally and have discussed his designs and historical perspecive of the automotive designs and designers over the years. It is wonderful to hear him speaking about this with others. My own father-in-law was a mechanical engineer at the GM Tech Center but in drive train designs. He retired before Dick was there. He used to talk of people like Harley Earl with real admiration. That was a period when car designs differed more than today when many cars no matter the brand or model often have a cookie cutter design ethic. You can argue if the old cars were better design wise than today but they certinainly weren't afraid of going to new designs. Some like this 1966 Olds were over the top both for it's body and drive train. He also designed other cars that Americans don't know about such as the Opel Bitter. Dick has one and often shows it here in S/E Michigan. If you are ever lucky enough to meet him....ask about his other designs.

[@fhwolthuis]

This is history, thank you for documenting this, Adam! 👍🏻😀

[@stevebyrne4235]

A fascinating insight to the design themes of these iconic cars; thanks to you both.

[@chrism.4544]

I like how the Toronado has the tailpipes kinda-sorta incorporated INTO the bumper rather than the standard of hanging below which is still around today. I think pipes below the bumper are unsightly. I think cars much older than the 1960s actually had exhausts coming out from within the bumper which is incredibly nice. I wish all cars did that. Toronado isn't quite what I would prefer but it beats the unsightly tailpipes on his two cousins, Eldorado and Riviera.

[@The_R-n-I_Guy]

Well, you did it again. Another great video.

[@jerrystaley1563]

Adam, thanks for your two episodes with Dick Ruzzin on the design evolution of GM's E-bodies. I bought a '67 Toronado in 1968 as I was smitten by the first Toronado that I ever saw in our local Austin, TX Olds-Cadillac dealer. Mr. Ruzzin did make a mistake in saying that the E-bodies were the first GM cars to have curved side glass. This design element appeared in the '64 A- bodied Chevelle, Tempest, F-85 and Special mid-size cars. My folks' 1964 F-85 Deluxe sported this side glass design in 4-door form. As always, I love your indepth videos. Jerry Staley Dickinson, TX

[@ntdfmaverick]

Wow just truly incredible hearing these stories. I feel like I look at these men like heroes. The Toronado's look was not only so beautiful, but so ahead of it's time. The side and rear views in particular, especially the rear quarters, look like they come from a complete decade later, in the mid to later 70s. There's such a strong European influence as well, but executed in a way that's not derivative; in fact it brings to mind cars from Europe that came later! Regardless, thank you so much for sharing this great interview.

[@iancolePRD129G]

Really interesting episode, love the lines of the Toronado. Thanks for all your hard work Adam

[@christopherkraft1327]

Very impressive!!! 👍👍🙂

[@fearsomebeard4290]

Those are the three most beautiful cars ever made.

[@tomb7382]

Love the rainbow towards the end.

[@corottolt1]

Man, what a great video. From someone/me who knows nothing about it. Thanks.

[@averyparticularsetofskills]

Dick is So So sharp and really creates a detailed mental picture for me when he speaks about one of his obvious passions. Good Stuff ( par for the channel )