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”!
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