Exceptional 1957 Oldsmobile 98 Convertible will be offered at Aubutn Spring Auction, scheduled for May 10, 2014. It is estimated to fetch $90,000 – $120,000. Oldsmobiles continued to run on the oval tracks of NASCAR including a 1957 Golden Rocket 88 piloted by a rookie driver named Richard Petty sporting the now famous #43. The Starfire prefix was added to all 98 models, not just the convertible models as in previous years. Despite the fact that this was Oldsmobile’s most expensive model ($3,838 before options), the Starfire 98 convertible was the division’s most popular open car with 8,278 made.
And, like this car, for a mere $83, you could order the hot J-2 engine option. Breathing through triple carburetors, with 10:1 compression, the hopped up Rocket V-8 yielded 300-hp. In normal driving, only the center carb operated. On the exterior, all Oldsmobiles gained an all-new body and a far different look from the previous model year.
This ’50s classic is lavishly equipped with power steering and brakes; power top, windows, seat, antenna and rare factory air conditioning. Befitting its top-of-the-line status, other desirable extras include a factory clock, Wonderbar radio, Autronic-Eye automatic headlight dimming, and white sidewall tires with deluxe wheel covers.
Painted a striking two-tone combination of Banff Blue/Artesian Blue with a white convertible roof and contrasting tri-tone blue and white leather interior, this Olds is equipped with the highly desirable J-2 Tri-Power option on its 371-cid Rocket V-8 backed up by a Jetaway Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This recent body-off restoration will be the envy of ’50s collectors regardless of where it might appear.
