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From AZ to AU: 1951 Olds 98 Convertible

A few days ago, we wrote up a handsome Oldsmobile 98 Touring Sedan that served as a reminder to some of the high points of the Oldsmobile brand. In general, the 98 lineup was a top-flight model, and if you purchased one new, it was likely a source of pride. While you can’t walk into an Oldsmobile dealer any longer, re-living the glory days is always an option – such as with this 1951 Olds 98 here on eBay Australia, listed for approximately $34,452 USD.

According to the seller, this baby blue 98 convertible was imported to Australia from sunny and dry Arizona, which helps explain why this 98 remains in such fine condition. Though it has been in long-term storage and the brakes need servicing, most of the major mechanical systems still function as intended, right down to the power top. The seller says the car is complete enough to simply service and drive as-is, or it could be the basis of a straightforward restoration.

While we can’t get much info from these dark photos, it does look like the body is free from major corrosion or damage. The seller points to some light rust developing in the floors, most likely caused by a leak associated with the under-seat heater. Powered by the Olds Rocket V8, these high-end models churned out a respectable 160 b.h.p., and came with a host of Deluxe-level trim features which were standard on drop-top models. This example even has power windows.

While the pictures are lousy and far more details would be needed for any overseas buyers, there’s a good amount here to like. My question – how does the pricing stack up against the condition? I realize they may be scarce in Australia, but is there a booming vintage U.S. car scene that would fawn over this 98 convertible? I’m not certain, but if we have any readers in Australia, please leave your opinions below.

Comments

  1. Avatar Rock On Member

    Nice car, but the shipping costs to North America are going to be steep.

    Like 0
  2. Avatar Adam T45 Staff

    Australia has always had a strong following for American cars. A lot of this stems back to the early 60’s when the big three manufacturers were Ford, Holden (GM) and Chrysler. At one stage in the early 60’s GM actually held 50% of the market share! Over the years these market shares have dropped as other players such as Nissan and Toyota have gathered their own share.

    Having said that, the following for American iron is still strong. There are a multitude of car clubs devoted to every type of American car, and I’m starting to think that almost every city in the country has at least one USA Day car show per year. People love the classic iron that everyone knows (Corvettes, Thunderbirds, etc.) but a car like this would garner a fair amount of attention because it is something different.

    Like 0
  3. Avatar Luke Fitzgerald

    Someone is always trying one on over hear with a rare US car – I like the night shots – gives the car a certain mystique – if it is simple to repair, do it. I also like the roof ventilation

    Like 0
  4. Avatar Joe

    That’s not your fathers Oldsmobile !

    Like 0
  5. Avatar Rob

    The big Olds

    Like 0
  6. Avatar Wayne

    Top dollar, 4 dark photos, no thanks

    Like 0
  7. Avatar jeff6599

    160 hp? not1 the only hp available from 49-51 was the 135 hp 2bbl 303 motor. In 52 however, there was a 145 hp 2bbl and a 160 hp 4 bbl.
    but not on this car.

    Like 0
  8. Avatar George

    I would think the Australian Olds is overpriced at least $25K and that would be F.O.B. LosAngeles. I can’t imagine the freight being less than $ 7 K. So it seems an unlikely candidate for an American purchaser because it would hit the shores at $40K+ F.O.B. L.A and just a good paint job would cost $15K plus a minimum of $20K for everything else. I can’t imagine anyone paying $75K for a 1950 Olds
    Raghead which is just another nice restored old car without any pedigree. In my view it would be worth no more than $30K restored

    Like 1

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