“Great project car was running when parked about 20 yrs ago; it’s located in Alma, AR.” And that’s it – no more listing details or description; definitely not an effective way to sell a car! No worries, I’ll see what I can provide to help with the cause of finding this 1947 Oldsmobile Club Coupe a new home. Terry gets a polite nod for this tip, and anyone interested in taking on this challenge will find this shed dweller listed here on Facebook Marketplace for $4,000.
Domestic cars built in the post-World War II era were mostly carryovers from the ’42 model year, as automobile production ceased for the war effort between early ’42 and late ’45. What we see with this ’47 Olds reflects that late-forties era; it’s a design that would change drastically in 1949 as manufacturers moved into what would become one of the most exciting times in American automotive history. Still, Oldsmobile didn’t hold back in ’47, offering cars in four series, including 66, 76, 86, and 98. Based on our subject’s roofline, I’ll suggest this is a Series 66 Club Coupe, one of 14K assembled in ’47. Other Series 66s included two-door Club Sedans and convertibles, and four-door Specials in sedan and station wagon body styles. This one’s under cover for now, but the faded/baked paint tells us this Olds has seen a lot of outdoor, unprotected time. Other than the missing front bumper, it appears to be complete, though the moss and general grime covering much of its topside disguise this car’s true condition. The body looks straight, and no rot is noted.
The upholstery is worn, but not to the extent of the finish. The steering wheel displays the usual cracks that can be expected with a 79-year-old tiller, but the instrument panel shows well – the gauges are still clear. No seatbelts here, but there is an add-on turn signal assembly in place. I also see what looks like an original radio – I wonder if it still works?
Slumbering for 20 years is a 100 gross HP, 238 CI, in-line flat-head six-cylinder engine. It looks complete, but this image is all the intel provided (and that silly business about it running in 2006). At the very least, it would be good to know if it turns over by hand. While a Hydra-matic automatic transmission was available, our subject makes do with a three-speed manual transmission. We’re in pretty far-off territory compared to what was on the two-year horizon in the form of the new “Rocket 88” overhead valve V8!
Some old cars beg for a proper restoration – they’re auspicious enough that they deserve such. I’m not feelin’ that with this Oldsmobile. Nope, this one seems destined for hot rod or restomod territory – it has a lot going for it in that direction, considering its overall design and body style. Anyway, that’s my thought; what’s yours?
Even though it might be spared some effects of the weather, it’s been parked on dirt, which it is slowly sinking into. It’s doubtful the undercarriage has escaped unscathed.
Steve R