1957 Oldsmobile 88

This 1957 Oldsmobile Super 88 J-2 Convertible is an absolutely gorgeous convertible with fantastic options and is a former 3-time concours participant. 1957 marked the final year of Oldsmobiles Futuramic styling, bookending an era that began in 1948. At the nose, the large oval recessed chrome grille was reminiscent of previous years style, almost a combination of the grilles from 1955 and 1956. Down the sides, a piece of chrome trim runs from the front quarter through most of the front door and a new painted accent stripe, straddled by chrome strips, runs from the vent window down and out through the rear quarter. Changes to the 57 rear end included a new, larger taillight design that capped off a truly elegant automobile. In 1957, Oldsmobile was the fifth-largest American automaker and the GM marque offered three distinct series, the entry-level Golden Rocket 88, the sporty Super 88, and the premium Starfire 98. The Super 88 shared the same body shell and 122 wheelbase as the entry-level 88, but came more highly-appointed and with more standard features including special trim and interior lights, among other items. The other big addition to Oldsmobiles 1957 lineup was the introduction of the J-2 induction system option comprised of a trifecta of dual-barrel carburetors that pushed the horsepower output from 277 to 300. This particular 57 Super 88 J-2 comes to us from a longtime owner who oversaw the cars extensive professional restoration and showed the car extensively, including in 3 separate east coast Concours DElegance events. Powering this 1957 Oldsmobile is a 371 Cubic Inch V8 engine paired with a J-2 Rocket induction tri-power system comprised of three dual-barrel carburetors and that was said to have created 300 horsepower when new. The J-2 371 V8 is backed by a Jetaway Hydra-Matic Automatic transmission that makes this Super 88 an easy car for anybody to drive. Exhaust exits the 371 V8 powerplant via a dual exhaust setup that produces a nice throaty sound out of the rear of this 50s cruiser. This 1957 Olds is loaded with options! Power steering and dual outside mirrors make maneuvering this Super 88 Convertible in and out of tight spaces at the local car show or drive-in is a total breeze and greatly improves the overall driving experience. Outfitted with Pedal-Ease Power Brakes, bringing this 1957 Oldsmobile to a full stop requires much less effort and is another one of those highly desirable options on vintage cars. Dual outside spotlights, fender skirts, and rear-mounted Continental Kit are all period-type options that add to the fifties allure of this Super 88. The white vinyl power convertible top is in great shape and it goes up and down with the simple flick of a switch. The previous owners of this 57 Olds also added several upgrades for improved drivability and performance. The original generator was replaced by an alternator to improve battery charging and overall electrical output. Previous ownership also added Vintage Air Conditioning so that you can stay cool while cruising even on the hottest summer days. The exterior of this 1957 J-2 Super 88 has been refinished in Festival Red with an Alcan White accent that just makes the exterior of this Olds pop. The chrome and brightwork around the exterior of this Super 88 is in fantastic shape and completes the exterior look of the car. The interior on this Super 88 Convertible is absolutely gorgeous! The front power seat and rear bench have been reupholstered in beautiful Red and Ivory leather. The color-matched door panels, chrome power window controls, red carpeting, padded dash, and steering wheel are all in wonderful condition as well and all appear to be in their stock configuration. The instrument cluster is equipped with a 120 MPH speedometer and fuel gauge, along with indicator lights for engine temperature, oil pressure, and battery charging. Integrated into the dash is a Wonderbar Super Deluxe AM radio sitting below the controls for the power antenna and power convertible top, and a clock. A Sunpro volt gauge and controls and vents for the Air Conditioning system are mounted neatly under the dash. Whether youre buying your first classic 50s car or youre adding to your existing collection this 1957 Oldsmobile Super 88 J-2 Convertible would make an excellent choice. Give us a call today at 763-428-7337!