If you are the type of enthusiast who prioritizes luxury and comfort over performance, have I got a car for you? I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J for spotting this 1984 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Brougham. The car’s name is quite a mouthful, but then, this is quite a classic. Its first owner pushed out the boat by ordering it with virtually every factory option, meaning that the new owner can enjoy their classic motoring experience in total comfort. The seller has listed the Olds here on Craigslist for $19,500. So, it is time to take a close look to determine whether that figure is justified.
The Eight Generation Oldsmobile 88 range demonstrates how the automotive landscape had changed since the 1950s. It was common for manufacturers to release what they claimed were new models every two or three years during that period, but this version of the Delta 88 graced showroom floors from 1977 until 1985. It was a simple case of economics that drove this as manufacturers sought to maximize profits. Our feature car is a 1984 Delta 88 Royale Brougham that the first owner ordered in Code 11 White with a matching Landau-style vinyl top and contrasting pinstripes. Its overall presentation is in keeping with a survivor-grade vehicle of this vintage. The paint shines nicely, the panels are straight, and any imperfections are seemingly minor. The seller claims that this classic is rust-free, and there is no evidence of deteriorating plastic or trim. However, there is something curious about this Olds, which is clearly visible in this article’s final photo. There is some type of weird wrinkling in the vinyl on the lower rear pillar. This is often a sign of hidden corrosion issues, and I would probably negotiate an in-person inspection with the seller before committing the funds to this purchase. The glass is clear, and the power Moonroof adds to this car’s appeal.
The interior is an undoubted highlight when we scrutinize this listing’s supplied images. It features Light Sand Gray cloth trim that has avoided any significant wear or marks. The carpet is excellent, with the same true of the dash, pad, and faux woodgrain. The seller describes the vehicle as fully loaded, and that description is close to the mark. The new owner receives ice-cold air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a power driver’s seat, a rear defogger, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player.
Powering this Olds is the company’s 307ci V8 generating 140hp and 240 ft/lbs of torque. Both figures are undeniably modest, especially considering that this engine must shift a car weighing 3,708 lbs. With the power feeding to the rear wheels via a four-speed 200-4R automatic transmission, this Delta 88 could not break into the 18-second region over the ¼-mile. However, it should be able to sit comfortably at 70mph on the open road while returning fuel consumption figures on the good side of 21mpg. The seller indicates that this classic rides on a new set of narrow whitewalls, but supplies no information regarding the mechanical health. That is disappointing, but when we consider their sale price, I wouldn’t expect anything less than mechanical perfection.
This 1984 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Brougham has many good points, with the only question hanging over the wrinkled vinyl visible in the above shot. However, the seller states that this car is rust-free, so the wrinkles may not hide any nasty surprises. So, that brings us to the question of the seller’s price, and whether it is justified. If you believe NADA above all else, the answer is a resounding “no!” Recent sales results tend to support that, although there are a few that suggest that if this Olds is as good as the listing claims, the price isn’t unprecedented. It has been on the market for over a week, and it will be fascinating to see whether it eventually finds a new home. Do you believe that the seller may need to compromise for that to happen?
Somebody loves the dual exhaust on this Rocket 🚀 307. Plenty of pics. Clarkey this big Coupe may have been able to see the 18s if equipped with an optional rearend. The good Dr Olds offered a couple slightly more lively choices than the stock 2.73s. A bit shorter 3.08, or 3.23 were available.
I had a neighbor many years ago that had an 84 Lesabre with a 307. Dont remember what rear it had but was lower than the 2:73 in my 82 Electra with a 307. It made a noticeable difference in acceleration. Granted it was slightly lighter too but it did help.
Very nice clean 88.
Wasn’t that steering wheel a Buick item. Never saw one on an Olds although i does have the Olds logo.
That steering wheel is definitely shared with Buick, and it’s definitely not the standard steering wheel shown in the ’84 Olds brochure. Perhaps this is the steering wheel you got if you ordered a telescoping column?
I do not think there was any difference in steering wheels tilt column or not. Perhaps the steering wheel cracked over time and this one was modified from a Buick.
I just noticed the telescope feature so i’d say you’re right. I’m guessing it was cheaper for GM to lift the top part of the column of an Electra or maybe 98.
I had the same car in a sandstone with brown velour interior. Beautiful riding car. Sucked in the snow even with real snow tires. Family was growing and we needed more than two doors. Sold the car to my cousin and his girlfriend,three weeks later they blew the transmission and the car sat for years until my uncle had it towed for scrap. What a sad end to a gorgeous car.
Better days for the General. Any type of vehicle you wanted GM could accommodate. Unlike the gm of today where the product lineup is space by comparison and if it is not an EV, new product development dollars are non-existent.
GM has any vehicle you could want today, as long as that vehicle is an SUV or a behemoth pickup truck.
Want a car? Tough luck.
These sunroof (Astroroof?) equipped cars are plenty rare where I come from and SE Michigan sees everything when it comes to vehicles. No explanation for the steering wheel. Not the telescoping design as Olds had a specific wheel and Buick used the Cadillac wheel with Buick insignia.
asking more than sticker when new. seems bit steep. not a very good job with the exhaust. needs the factory 15×7 chrome wheels
I would say the seller is a bit optimistic on the price.