Oldsmobile introduced the Third Generation of its 88 model in 1957, but it remained in production for two years. The mid-range offering was the Super 88, which sold in numbers that must have pleased management. If buyers wanted performance beyond that offered by the basic 371ci V8, ticking the right box on the Order Form brought the J2 version into the picture, providing a useful increase in power and torque. This Olds features that option, and the car presents well for its age. It needs a new home, so the owner has listed it here on eBay in Stokesdale, North Carolina. Bidding sits at $22,100, although I’m not surprised that figure is short of the reserve.

The seller purchased this Olds around three years ago and indicates it underwent restoration before their purchase. Since coming into their possession, they treated it to a further cosmetic refresh last year. The paint color is a mystery because it doesn’t match any shade on the Oldsmobile color charts for the 1957 model year. It might be a special order, or the restorer may have performed a color change during their build. As a point of reference, it is close to a shade called Regal Maroon, which the company offered in 1955. The paint shines impressively, although the seller admits a close inspection reveals the minor chips and marks that stones can inflict during regular use. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and I see no evidence of rust. The exterior rounds out with spotless glass, glistening chrome, and a classy set of whitewall tires.

The interior of this Olds continues the “tidy driver” theme, with Back upholstery that presents well. The seller admits there are a few minor repairs, although these aren’t visible in the supplied photos. The wheel looks excellent, as do the carpet and dash. One aspect of interior design from this era that attracts me is the use of bright trim and chrome. It may not be the safest material in the event of an accident, but it helps lift a dark interior like this to prevent it from looking somber. The custom dash pad sounds like a welcome addition, but it loses points on practicality as it obscures the clock. It isn’t loaded with optional extras, but the factory radio would be welcome on long journeys. Another mystery this classic provides is the seller’s reference to the optional radio in the glove box. I initially thought that someone may have retrofitted the optional “Trans-Portable” radio from the 1958 model year, but I’m not sure.

Oldsmobile offered potential buyers a couple of engine choices to power their 4,340lb Super 88, and the entry-level 371ci V8 provided 277hp. That figure satisfied most buyers, but those wishing to enjoy a performance edge could opt for the J2 version equipped with a Tri-Power induction system. That motor boosted power and torque figures to 300hp and 410 ft/lbs. That’s what we find occupying this classic’s engine bay, and when coupled to a four-speed Hydramatic transmission, it allowed the car to storm the ¼ mile in 17 seconds before running out of breath at 121mph. Those figures are not that impressive by modern standards, but they offered bragging rights in 1957. The seller states this engine recently received a rebuild, including a .030″ bore and balancing. They also refreshed the transmission, meaning this beauty runs and drives perfectly. If the buyer seeks a turnkey classic from the 1950s, this could be a tempting proposition.

With a sales total of 31,155 vehicles for 1957, the 2-Door Holiday Hardtop was the third-highest selling derivative of the Super 88 behind the 4-Door Sedan and 4-Door Hardtop. Our feature car is a gem, and the J2 version of the company’s 371ci V8 should provide performance that matches its good looks. The action on this one has been intense, with thirty-six bids submitted. I believe that it will need to pass $30,000 to hit the reserve, and if that is to happen in the remaining time, the bidding will need to become pretty frantic. Do you think it will make it?