Other than the Cadillac Eldorado (which would go one more year), 1975 was the last year for convertibles at General Motors (at least for a while). Discontinued at the end of ’75 were full-size ragtops from Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, and Oldsmobile. Demand was high when word got out, and this Delta 88 Royale is from that last larger batch. Located in Toledo, Washington, this survivor-quality Oldsmobile is available here on craigslist for $20,000 OBO.
Full-size Oldsmobiles were redesigned in 1971, and these larger-than-life cars were in production through 1976. The 1977 model year brought about downsizing that reduced weight to help with fuel economy – without sacrificing passenger comfort. Despite higher fuel prices as a result of the OPEC oil embargo, Oldsmobile built 21,038 of these open-air land yachts in ’75 (though the seller says 7,200), up from just 3,716 the year before.
We don’t know if any restoration work has been done on this Delta. The mileage is 79,000 while the body, paint, and interior seem to be up-to-snuff. The original purchaser of this car went for the biggest engine available, a 455 cubic inch “Rocket” V8, paired with a TH-400 automatic transmission (we assume). No mention is made of the car’s running status, but you gotta think it’s ready to cruise with the top down.
This car may have just about every option you could ask for in 1975, including factory air conditioning, power steering and brakes, electric windows, and a power-operated top that matches the rest of the body. The red interior was a great way to contrast the appearance of the vehicle. If you’re looking for a top-down ride for the upcoming Summer, you might be able to score this ride for under $20k. Another cool tip from “Curvette”!
nice it has a 455 in it. price is a bit high but if it’s as clean as stated then maybe. i bought a roached out 71 88 convert in June and it has a 455 as well but that car is for parts especially the motor and convert parts. so much rust and bondo.it doesn’t look like the 1 in today’s listing that’s for sure.
I owned this exact car in the early 80’s. I bought it with 17K on the clock and was a Miss American parade car. It was a pleasure to drive but the parades must of messed up the carb which gave me and my mechanic headaches. The car was so big (my daily car was a 80 Ford Fiesta) it barely fit in my garage. I had to put the top down, drive into the garage and climb out.
Nice looking 88 convertible. Classic colors and lots of equipment to keep most people happy. No goofy mods and I can take the #8 plate off and replace it with my original Bicentennial plate.
A bicentennial plate on a ’75.. I suppose. Just leave the plate off, imho.
I’ve always liked these 88 convertibles, but not for 20k. Plus, it’s far away. Seems to be plenty of beautiful vehicles in the Pacific NW.
Could have the ’76 up front and the ’26 out back. Michigan has reissued the design for the 250th.
No way did Oldsmobile build 21,038 of these convertibles in 1975! You are way off! Check your research.
Also, the standard bodyside moulding is missing meaning the car likely was painted. The car looks odd to me without it. The moulding can’t be saved when removed and even ten years ago, was very hard to find.
Big enough to raise a family in.
How many cars can deliver as much fun in total comfort for you and the family than this? If you could even find a new car like this today, what would it cost? Much lighter than the eldorado convertible of the same year and the 455 is no slouch. Quiet, fun, dependable. The next owner is a lucky person.
A red 31,000 mile 75 Delta convertible sold Monday on BAT for $14,000. 20K too much.