When the company introduced the Starfire in 1961, it was Oldsmobile’s most expensive model. A Convertible version joined the fray in 1962, but the price meant it never sold in significant numbers. This 1964 Starfire Convertible is an unmolested classic requiring restoration. Its solid nature and mechanical health mean the new owner could enjoy it immediately while tackling its restoration as time and circumstances allow. It is listed here on eBay in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Bidding has passed the reserve to sit at $6,601, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Larry D for spotting this rare gem.

The seller indicates the original owner retained this Starfire from the day it rolled off the showroom floor before passing it to a grandson a few years ago. The grandson planned a restoration, but the process basically stalled before it started. It needs a new home, but it appears the buyer will commence the build with a solid candidate. The seller provides excellent high-resolution photos which paint a promising picture. Its original Provincial White paint looks tired, but there is no evidence of prior accident damage or existing rust issues. The panels are straight, the gaps are consistent, and any bumps or marks are minor. The car features a White power top that looks like it might respond positively to a thorough clean, although the back window exhibits the start of some cloudiness. The trim looks excellent for a survivor, and there are no visible glass issues.

Because the Starfire was Oldsmobile’s range-topping personal luxury car, it came with the bells and whistles that cemented its luxury credentials. The new owner of this classic receives air conditioning, leather upholstery, power windows, a power driver’s seat, an AM radio, and a console with an integrated factory tachometer. The interior is serviceable but needs TLC to return to its former glory. This aspect of the build could prove the most expensive because the rarity of these classics means that replacement trim and upholstery items aren’t thick on the ground. Locating new seatcovers off the shelf seems impossible, although a couple of companies hold the correct templates and materials to produce reproductions for around $1,500. A carpet set retails for approximately $240, but the modified door trims with the frayed carpet could prove the most significant challenge. I failed to find replacements during a brief online search, but if the new owner shows persistence, they might strike gold. The dash, pad, and console look fine, and the wheel is uncracked. Considering the price of the seatcovers, I think potential buyers should hold $3,000 in their budget for this refurbishment. That figure sounds high, but it pays to play it safe in these situations.

At nearly eighteen feet in length and tipping the scales at 4,453 lbs, the Starfire Convertible needed something special under the hood to provide acceptable performance. Oldsmobile delivered by slotting in the 394ci V8 producing 345hp. That power found its way to the rear wheels via a three-speed Hydramatic transmission, while power assistance for the steering and brakes were standard features. Although it was a luxury model and the V8 was shifting a considerable weight, the Starfire’s ability to cover the ¼ mile in 16.6 seconds before winding its way to 124mph satisfied most buyers. The spotless presentation of the engine bay suggests this may have been where the previous owner’s restoration began. Apart from an Edelbrock air cleaner, there are no other visible aftermarket additions. The seller says it runs and drives well but recommends the winning bidder replace the older tires and perform a thorough inspection before any long journeys. That’s wise counsel because nothing sours a relationship between an owner and their classic than a major failure on their first serious outing.

Oldsmobile sold 16,163 examples of the Starfire in 1964, but only 2,410 buyers proved willing to pay the $4,753 sticker price to park a Convertible in their garage. That price represented a 15% premium over the Hardtop version, which was more than most people were willing to spend. The relative rarity of these classics means the new owner is unlikely to park beside an identical vehicle at a Cars & Coffee. Still, it doesn’t translate into a stratospheric potential value once restored. Pristine examples can command prices of over $50,000, although $45,000 seems the average. If this Olds sells for somewhere close to the current bid, that leaves room to move on the restoration before financial viability becomes an issue. Therefore, if this classic piques your interest and you have the money, it may be worth pursuing it further.