This 1989 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser is another member of the crowded B platform, which included estate bodies under different nameplates across the GM line. Subtle differences may exist between each manufacturer’s wagon, but at the end of the day, finding one in condition like this is what makes it stand out. The Olds is described as an extremely well-optioned model that had a window sticker of $18K in 1989, and is now listed here on eBay with bids at $12K.
The woodgrain applique has held up well, and the seller notes just one spot where it has disintegrated, which was due to a previous owner getting too close to some shrubbery. Aside from that, the cosmetics are said to be excellent, and a light tint on the windows helps to protect the cabin from the brutal Florida sun. With just over 41,000 original miles, it’s of little surprise this one remains so well preserved. It is optioned with the rear power tailgate window and defogger.
The Oldsmobile is equipped with the factory 307, a 5.0L V8 paired to a 2.93 rear end. Options-wise, I don’t see any sort of tow package mentioned in the listing, or a locker rear end, and I believe both were options for the wagon line. When reading through the boxes the original owner checked, the emphasis was clearly on occupant comfort and convenience, rather than hauling capabilities. The engine benefits from a new battery and fresh fluids from a local GM dealer.
The third-row seat is always a treat to see, and other comfort / convenience features for passengers include power windows and door locks; electric outside mirrors; power driver’s seat and reclining passenger seat; and air conditioning that’s already been converted to R-134 and is said to be ice cold. That doesn’t surprise me, as it seems GM products from this era always had robust A/C. Whether you plan to just haul yourself or your family, this Olds is tough to beat.
Garbage. My mother’s ‘85 Parisienne Safari was a dog. Slow, tap-lock brakes, and zero steering feel. Fourth rate plastics that disintegrated in the sun. By comparison, the ‘77 Town and Country that preceded it in our driveway was a Rolls-Royce.
I had one of these when I was in my 20’s . A party on wheels . 9 passengers + 2 cases of beer etc …..
I’ve had one,too, and they are great cars that will haul anything. But; a 307 is not big enough to give the car the necessary grunt it should have at its weight. At the moment I have no use for another wagon but someone should jump on this.
My mouth is hanging open at the price it is at right now on Ebay. KI didn’t realize they were going for so much.
I like wagons, I’m currently driving my 5th one. While there is a lot this wagon has to offer, the styling, or lack of styling, doesn’t appeal to me. There is a lot to like; the low mileage, excellent original condition, desirable options and apparently rust-free body. The 307 is barely adequate for this heavy wagon and with a load of passengers will be working hard. However, it’s the styling that comes up short in my opinion. It’s brick-like appearance is devoid of any styling cues save for the faux wood applique. The word “bland” pops into my head when I look at it.
Wagons up to the early ’70s were good-looking cars, after that, not so much save for the Dodge Magnum. We all know that wagons fell out of favor with the arrival of the mini-van but with the success of cars like the retro-style Mustang and Challenger, I wonder if the new Mustang Mach-E will be a hot seller?
I had the Buick version of this wagon, a 1985 Electra Estate wagon (the best looking one of the bunch, IMHO). Loved that car. We were remodeling the main floor of our house circa 1999 and had to transport materials from Home Depot. The wagon would take 4×8 sheets of drywall lying flat in the cargo area with the tailgate up, and 4×10 sheets if we left the tailgate flipped down! You should have seen the faces of the posers with their “SUVs” as they struggled to fit their purchases into their vehicles, and there’s me and my brother effortlessly sliding sheet after sheet into the old wagon.
Worth every penny
I own 1987 last 15 years – purchased from
Myrtal Beach SC and drive only summers around USA – comfort and simplicity- no recalls
I worked for Oldsmobile during the time of this wagon. I have some interest in the car. Tell me more about it and how much.