Many enthusiasts will aspire to own a spotless classic and drive the object of their desire with their heads held high. However, some are undeniably attracted to owning a vehicle that wears its original tag like a badge of automotive pride. That is the opportunity offered by this 1955 Oldsmobile 98 Holiday Coupe. It isn’t perfect but is a rock-solid vehicle that runs and drives well. Many enthusiasts may consider treating it to a cosmetic restoration, although some might decide that it would still garner the same level of attention and positive comments if they preserved it as-is. Regardless of your preference, you will find the Olds listed here on Craigslist in Vancouver, Washington. You could fly in and drive this classic home by handing the seller $14,500. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Bret P for spotting this fantastic vehicle.

The Fourth Generation 98 appeared in 1954, remaining on sale for three model years. This 1955 Holiday Coupe sits right in the middle of the production run, and some will question the fact I’ve classed it as an original survivor. That is a valid point because it has undergone a couple of changes during its life. The fender-mounted mirrors are the most obvious at first glance, which many will find a jarring and unnecessary modification. Removing them would be easy and may represent part of the restoration process. The owner reveals that its existing paint color isn’t original, with the car rolling off the line wearing an unidentified shade of Blue. There is also some form of repair visible on the rear quarter panel in the above shot, although it isn’t clear whether this was to address rust or panel damage. An in-person inspection should provide an answer and is an approach I recommend with any classic purchase. The panels are surprisingly straight for a vehicle of this vintage, but its ace could be its claimed lack of rust. The seller describes it as rust-free, and the only thing visible in the supplied photos is the occasional spot of surface corrosion. The trim is intact, and anything that won’t respond positively to polish would be restorable. The Olds features tinted glass, and this appears excellent.

The interior shots make a positive impression, and there are no aftermarket additions requiring reversal. The seller believes the seatcovers may be newer, but their condition matches the remaining upholstered surfaces in that they are free from wear or other issues. The carpet looks quite good, with only minor wear under the driver’s feet. The gauges have clear lenses and crisp markings, and there are no visible cracks on the wheel. The only significant flaws worth noting include deterioration on some painted surfaces. The glove compartment door is a mismatch, making me wonder if it is indicative of this classic’s original paint shade. Refreshing this aspect of the car would not be difficult, and doing so could provide a striking contrast if the new owner elects to leave the exterior untouched. The buyer will receive a few welcome creature comforts, including power windows, a power front seat, and a factory pushbutton radio.

Lifting the hood reveals this car’s original 324ci V8 that should produce 186hp. The rest of the drivetrain includes a four-speed Hydramatic transmission and the luxury of power steering. Many Olds 98 buyers in 1955 weren’t particularly worried about performance figures, although this car wouldn’t cause embarrassment. It would have covered the ¼ mile in 19.1 seconds before winding its way to 104mph. Neither figure sounds impressive by modern standards, but they were considered very respectable when this car rolled off the production line. Probably of greater significance to the original owner was that it could happily cruise at highway speeds, making it an effective long-distance tourer. For potential buyers, this Olds could provide instant gratification. The seller states it runs and drives well, opening the potential for the new owner to fly in and build a relationship with this Coupe as they drive it home.

The generally unmolested status of this 1955 Oldsmobile 98 Holiday Coupe makes it a prime candidate for restoration. Its lack of rust and complete nature should ensure that such a process is straightforward. Preserving the car is also a valid approach, but there’s one further factor to consider. If potential buyers are unsure, they don’t need to make an immediate decision. They could buy this classic and enjoy what it offers immediately. That allows time to consider their options, which is an approach some will find too attractive to resist. Do you fit into that category?