Years ago, when an auto manufacturer offered a convertible body style, it was usually made available on the top model or trim level. That was half true for Oldsmobile in 1968 as its range-topping Ninety-Eight model was offered in convertible form. In addition, however, its low-end model, known as the Delmont 88, also came in drop-top form, and that’s what I have for your review today. Discovered residing in Belleville, Wisconsin, by Hans. H., this wind-in-your-hair Youngmobile is available here on Facebook Marketplace for $12,999.
Besides the Ninety-Eight and Delmont 88, other Oldsmobile models/trim levels for ’68 included the Delta 88 Custom and the standard Delta 88. The Delmont, a two-year-only model, was available in two-door hardtop and convertible form, as well as four-door sedans and hardtops. Our subject is one of only 2,800 assembled in ’68 (the Ninety-Eight ragtop didn’t fare much better with only 3,900 examples), making this car rather rare. So, what’s special about this claimed 79 K-mile subject? Well, it’s a big, V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive, two-door convertible, produced by one of America’s former preeminent auto manufacturers, and in a body style and configuration that’s long gone from our autoscape. It’s true, you don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone! Anyway, this Olds, other than its rumply-looking, non-operative folding top, appears to be in pretty good shape – the seller claims the Provincial White finish is original, and it still appears to be sound, though the images aren’t great on details. Rust, the bane of these sixties convertibles, is not apparent, but I think I’d want to take a closer look at the floors, trunk, and underside. I’d also like to see a shot of the passenger side, but none were provided. The wheel choice is a curious one; these look like chrome reverse steel wheels capped by baby moon hubcaps – a matter of preference, I suppose.
Surprisingly, nothing is said about the engine. Standard equipment in the Delmont 88 was a 250 gross HP, new for ’68, 350 CI powerplant, with a more powerful 310 HP version available. The new, big 455 CI V8 was also on the option list. This motor appears to be topped off with a replacement intake manifold and carburetor, and then finished with an open-element air cleaner and chrome-plated valve covers. I don’t know about you guys, but if I never see another yellow sparkplug wire, I’ll be a happy man… As goes the engine, so goes the transmission. It’s an automatic, but if the engine is a 350 CI mill, the transmission is likely a two-speed Jetaway (which is not the same as a Powerglide). The seller claims this one’s a “great runner.”
Inside, we find fabric upholstery which is probably not original as it is mostly devoid of any real pattern, and GM generally specified vinyl as the go-to material for their various division’s convertibles. It may be the lighting, but the seating material looks either stained, worn, or both. From what can be told, the dash, instrument panel, and door panels check out.
So, what do we really have here? This Oldsmobile convertible should have a big fun factor, but the non-working folding top needs to be fixed. Trying to move it, manually, up and down is a chore, and repairs to these uncomplicated systems are generally not a problem. Parts are still available from several different suppliers. The upholstery doesn’t need immediate attention, but I’d want to “improve” it. Beyond that, this rig checks a lot of boxes, wouldn’t you agree?
maybe a 455 judging from the “C” casting on the head. i would do a wheel swap for sure. cool convert but wrong time of the year to sell it
Bought one in 1974 just like this from my neighbor, except gold exterior. It had a 455 2bbl, was very thirsty (or was it my driving habits?), not that fast but did sound great under acceleration. It was a great top down land cruiser. Fond memories . . .
The ad states that it has been on FB for over a year which to me is a big red flag. At the least in order to be an enjoyable convertible; the top needs to be replaced. That is a job for a professional and it won’t be inexpensive. And who knows what else that the top needs to function. I’m pretty sure that is why it is still for sale.
CarBob replacing a convertible top is actually quite easy I have done I several times on a 69 olds cutlass a 2003 mustang and a saab 900 takes 2 people and patience I have also rebuilt the hydraulics and replaced the pumps on the olds and mustang not hard just messy with the power steering fluid used getting everywhere if this were a cutlass I would jump onit