Vehicle Description
In 1971, Oldsmobile built and sold nearly 560,000 vehicles, making
them the sixth largest producer of automobiles in America. A
variety of models were built ranging from the lowest price F-85
series to the most expensive model, the Toronado. In the middle of
the pack was the Delta 88 Series, which was Oldsmobile full-size
model. The Delta 88 was offered as a standard model as well as a
Delta 88 Custom and a Delta 88 Royale. The Delta 88 Royale was the
top of the line for the 88 series and was only offered as a
two-door hardtop and a convertible. The Delta 88 Royale convertible
was the largest and most expensive convertible offered by
Oldsmobile in 1971. This Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible is
one of only 2,883 built during the 1971 model year and carried a
base price of 4,325.00. Standard equipment included power front
disc brakes, an electric clock, carpeting, and power steering. This
particular example is loaded with numerous, desirable factory
options and accessories including power windows, power door locks,
power front seat, air conditioning, tinted glass, two speed wipers
with windshield washers, AM/FM factory radio with a rear speaker,
dual side view mirrors, dual exhaust, cruise control, a power trunk
release, rear window defogger, and Nite-Watch. We are offering this
vehicle from an estate of a well known, local collector of 1960s
and 1970s GM vehicles. He purchased this vehicle many years ago due
to its rarity. He was particularly attracted to its long list of
factory accessories as well as its desirable, triple-black color
combination. He also knew that this was a solid and well-preserved
car that was certainly worthy of a cosmetic restoration.
Unfortunately, he was never able to begin this project. Today, this
1971 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale convertible remains in the same
condition as when it was purchased. It is an extremely solid and
complete car that is in need of a cosmetic restoration. The black
paint is well worn and lifting in several areas. The black interior
shows overall signs of wear and the black convertible top covering
has a few rips, tears and patches. The chrome and stainless trim
items are in similar, original condition but are intact and
certainly restorable. The body appears to be very solid. There are
the expected amount of small dings, dents and scrapes, but no
evidence of any serious body damage. The floors appear to be in
good condition, as does the trunk pan. The quarter panels,
doorsills, etc. are good and solid. Even though the cosmetics are
well worn, this car appears to have lived a good life. Under the
hood, the correct 455 cubic inch/330 horsepower V-8 engine starts
easily, runs well and appears to be in solid, mechanical condition.
The Turbo 400 automatic transmission shifts smoothly. This car
appears to drive well and the air conditioner appears to operate
properly. The mileage indicated is approximately 45,360. Delta 88
Royale Convertibles are rarely offered for sale. This example, with
its triple black color combination as well as its long list of
features could become a welcomed addition to any collector of early
1970s convertibles. A cosmetic restoration on this solid example
would be a relatively straight-forward and financially rewarding
project that would result in an impressive car when completed. This
is a great opportunity to own a desirable Oldsmobile at a very
reasonable price.
