The 88 (aka Eighty-Eight) was a journeyman car for Oldsmobile, included in the lineup from 1949 to 1999. It carried several pre-fixes, such as Dynamic, Deluxe, Super, Rocket, Jetstar, Delmont, and Delta. The latter was perhaps used most often, especially during the seventh generation of cars (1971-76) when the seller’s survivor was built. After more than 50 years, this blue beauty seems to have racked up just 16,000 miles, practically a miracle. Located in Monroe Township, New Jersey, this may not have been “your father’s Oldsmobile” (shades of Dick Clark!), but it can be yours today here on craigslist for $7,950.
GM redesigned all their full-size cars in 1971, which would be the last before the great downsizing that began in 1977. They were large automobiles utilizing a 124-inch wheelbase and nearly 19 feet in length. The Delta 88 came standard with a 350 cubic inch V8, which had been detuned slightly in ’71 to run on unleaded fuel, and further adjustments would occur in ’72 when horsepower was rated in SAE net terms. If you wanted a 4-door hardtop (without door pillars), you could get that body style as the “regular” Delta 88 (35,500 copies made) or the Delta 88 Royale (42,600 units). The seller’s auto falls into the latter category.
The Delta 88 saw minimal changes in 1972 and this example is about as nice a holdout as you’re likely to find. The odometer reading reflects only 320 miles a year, meaning the seller and any prior owners decided to keep it under wraps more times than not. The 350 V8 and TH-400 automatic transmission are said to run really well, and the car looks like it should sail smoothly down the interstate.
We’re told there’s no rust on the body or chassis and the paint shines up nicely. There is no mention if it’s the original finish, but we wouldn’t complain if it’s not. The interior is good, but not quite as tidy as the carpeting looks to have faded some and there is a loose seam on the passenger side seat bottom. But these hardly are things to fret over and would involve minimal cost to remedy. If you’re into these 1970s GM B-body transports, does this Oldsmobile fit the bill? Thanks for the cool tip, Barn Finder Zen!
This is very nice – 4 doors and all. If anyone is interested, don’t wait I can see a classic car dealer buy this and ask $11, 995 or even $14, 995. Because they can….
Would love to have one of these with a modern drivetrain such as an LS, 6A, and decent gearing. Get 20+mpg on the highway while being able to land a small aircraft on the hood, LOL.
Oh my yes. An all-aluminum 5.3 LS would make a lot more horsepower, a fair bit more torque, and weigh over 100 pounds less; that would be my choice for an efficient, smooth, quiet, low-maintenance highway cruiser.
My dad had a 1971 Oldsmobile Delta 88 with a factory 455 in it.It was a 4 door and dark green, that car drove so smooth, id love to find another ’71.
Dandy Delta 88. 3.08 gear ⚙️ std. Perfect powertrain for comfortable cruising.
Did you forget Holliday 88.The torque was strong on the 455’s.
Yeah it’s a big disappointment that it does not have a 455 as I saw so many with a 455 I didn’t think you could get one with a 350 ! You learn something new everyday. A high school buddy of mines Dad had the 455 rocket & boy we loved the way that 4 barrel growled when my buddy jumped on it & of course warp speed soon followed. Those were the days hellions on the prowl!
You’re welcome, I’m happy that one of my submissions was accepted. This is a beautiful car, a basic family car with A/C and no special options, a typical car that was once seen everywhere. I love the blue! I hope it finds a good home.
If I’m not mistaken that’s a Chevrolet air cleaner assembly, not a rocket 350 air cleaner.
Great looking Olds- I wish it was closer… Great catch on the air cleaner! definitely looks like Chevrolet and not Olds…
Yes on the Chevy air cleaner, but an Olds engine with the oil filler spout up front. Engine swapping would start in 1977.
Time capsule that has been to church more times than an alter boy.
my late maternal grandmother had a 455 equipped version of this car when mum and Uncle Joe were young in fact Uncle Joe got his driver’s license in the 1972 Oldsmobile delta 88 and my mum got hers in a 350 equipped 1978 model of the same car in March 1979 mums first car having been a used Pontiac Firebird esprit redbird edition
Having had the coupe in 1980 I can say these are a great car. Mine was equipped pretty much the same way.
Anything Oldsmobile for me. I had the 1970’ 455 2bbl Delta 88 engine purred so fine it gave kittens purring lessons.
What a wonderful land yacht in a great color.
It worries me that it is only one state away from me…. I could seal the deal and have it home before noon.
Must resist…..
My brother had this car, blue w a blue interior, 455, power windows, am/fm Stereo radio, it was a company car, ran beautifully