Having covered this visually spectacular 1958 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 earlier in the week, I thought it would be interesting to compare it to this more sedate 1955 Oldsmobile Super 88, a car designed and built before GM’s “big turn”, the big turn being the year 1958 when longer, lower, wider and “chromier” became the cause de celebre. This Super 88 is located in Cincinnati, Ohio and is available, here on Everything But The House for a current bid of $6,300 with 61 bids tendered so far. Thanks to Mitch S for this tip!
Definitely a more restrained design, this ’55 Olds looks like 1955 with its cheerful two-tone aqua and cream finish. The listing states, “good condition overall. paint faded but could probably be buffed out“. There’s no indication if the paint is original but it shows very well. The listing contains extensive images of the exterior and there are some chips, scratched, etc but all-in-all, it’s in very good condition. So is the extensive trim, it is showing no signs of 66 years of exposure. The body panels are straight, there’s no sign of rust or rot-through and the doggie bowl hubcap/white stripe tires look just right on this two-door hardtop.
Inside, there is wear evident on the upholstery panels as there are some seam separations and surface wear evident but it still shows well. the old-style nylon loop carpet has probably been replaced, it’s too nice and color-true considering this car’s age.
Gotta love the instrument panel, it’s a chrome-laden work of art as so many were on mid and upper-tier cars of this era. It even has its original “Deluxe” AM radio.
The details surrounding this car are light so there’s no word as to how this 87K mile example runs and drives. Research indicates that the engine is a 202 gross HP, 324 CI “Rocket” V8 connected to a Hydramatic automatic transmission. Things in the engine room look complete and mostly original. It is evident that the driving experience is enhanced with power steering and brakes.
The reaction to the ’58 Olds was mostly positive, in many instances due to its significant powertrain, but also because of its ouvert styling – it’s a flashy car. Three years earlier, appearances were more reserved but still light years ahead of where they had been just three or four short years earlier. Unbridled enthusiasm is one way that I would describe the 1950’s automotive scene. This Super 88 is trending in affordable territory and the auction has only a day to go. I’d say some’s going to pick up a bargain, how about you?
I have a soft spot for 55 Oldsmobiles because that’s what I first bought after my three year stint with the army in 1967. Mine was a holiday 98 4 door hardtop, no pillar. It was two tone black and white. Topped out at 105mph on I-5 in Oregon.
Had it a couple years, burnt the valves and sold it.
God bless America
Beautiful car out of the tri 5 era that still looks good today. Lot of good looking cars from the big three in those years.
A family friend had this exact car, only w/ full wheel covers. It was replaced by a ’67 VW!! :-)
Flashy but not too flashy, most cars of 55-56 were beautiful, this being one of them.
Apparently the chrome laden instrument panel was a hold over from 1954. The 56’s did away with all the engine gauges and introduced idiot lights. Looked better though.
It bothers me to no end seeing narrow white walls on a car like this!! If you don’t want to fork over the money for the proper whitewall tires then install blackwalls on it.
Seats appear to have a set of cheap seatcovers. The seat design and materials are totally incorrect for a S-88.
If I had room for her, I would bid.
Sold for $16,000