In a robust display of marketing audacity, Oldsmobile conferred multiple labels on each of its cars through the 1960s. Consider the 1968 Oldsmobile 88: it could be a Delmont, a Delta, or a Delta Custom. On top of all that, this body style is the Holiday Coupe – basically a hardtop. Badged liberally, these full-sized 88s were among Oldsmobile’s most popular, representing at least 25% of all Olds production during 1968. Here on eBay is a 1968 Olds 88 Delta Custom, priced at $18,000 and located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania. Curvette sent this tip our way – thanks!
During the 1960s, options lists were legion: buyers could choose seat headrests, air conditioning, remote mirrors, various radios and steering wheels, several engines, trim and moldings, an oil cooler …. you could equip a base-model Delmont with enough goodies to exceed the price of the top-shelf Delta Custom. This car is powered by the Rocket 455 cu. in. V8 breathing through a four-barrel, good for 365 gross hp. A three-speed automatic puts the power to the back wheels. This engine bay, as well as the underside profiled in the listing could benefit from some cosmetic improvement, but the seller notes that this example runs fine with plenty of get-up-‘n-go.
The interior is showing its age – the gold-tone color on the instrument panel is wearing off, and the bucket seat shells have yellowed. Something was screwed into the metal dash to the left of the steering wheel, leaving two holes. The headliner has a few wrinkles, and the trunk has seen better days. But the upholstery is not torn, and the carpets are decent.
This stunning fastback styling lasted only two years, from ’67 through ’68. The swell of the rear funder as it rises from the door, the beautifully slanted rear glass, and the graceful teardrop shape created by the open side windows are impressively sophisticated elements. Starting in 1969, the 88 was redesigned, synching up to the new squared-off dialect. A prospective owner can pay less for a similar Olds – we found sales consummated at $10k. I love the lines of this classic coupe, and its condition offers an opportunity to make easy improvements. I’d be tempted to offer $12k for this car – what do you think?
Beautiful design from the good Dr Olds’ studio Michelle. Teamed w the big motor. 👍 🏁
Love this body style and bucket seat interior. Wish it had a center console.
On my bucket list is a ’69 Delta 88 Royale with buckets and a console.
Like what’s seen here? (https://duckduckgo.com/?q=1969+Delta+88+Royale+with+bucket+seats&atb=v452-1&ia=images&iax=images)
She’s a monster. Nice car! If anyone can get it for $12K jump on it!
If you’re going to have one, here she is. Last of the best fastback coupes with the 455 to move all her down the road. Would love to be behind the wheel of this one.
I didn’t think the 455 was available in ’68–but I could be mistaken.
First year for Olds. Buick and Pontiac introduced their 455 later in 1970.
It was…& w/Demmer Tool and Die helping to manufacture the ’68 Hurst Olds, Oldsmobile made the 455 available in all their full-size vehicles.
I sold a 1968 4 door sedan recently with the 455. It had a lot of power! The gas cap said, Premium only!
GM was definitely on the ball with their beautifully styled cars of the mid-1960’s.
Nice Olds!!! The buckets with a column shift and no console is unique. I still have the 1968 Oldsmobile full line brochure ( The Youngmobile) from my Moms ’68 Cutlass. These are handsome cars. Thanks Michelle and Curvette!!!
I bought a one-year-old Bimini Blue1967 Toronado with black bucket seats and no console. The gap between the seats and the flat floor seemed like a chasm.
I like the design except for the front grill area.
This is a beautiful color combination in & out. Like someone else said, I didn’t think the 455 came on board until ’69.
With some careful thought and search, a modern console with stowage & cupholders could be found to fill the space between the seats. Or a good upholstery shop could make one and make it look retro.
Too bad there’s holes in the dash, but maybe a piece could be found on-line to replace that along with the dash issue.
Oh, please lose the rwl tires and put narrow stripe whitewalls on!
a killer fast back olds packing a 365hp 455. i love it but the letter tires need to go. a cash offer will take this home.
Mr. Smith had an Oldsmobile Baby blue with them wire wheels.