To Be OFFERED AT AUCTIONEstimate:
$100,000 - $125,000
- Professional restoration completed October 2015.
- Used sparingly since restoration.
- One of just 1,335 88 Deluxe Station Wagons produced for
1949.
- Equipped with the legendary Rocket V-8 and Hydra-Matic
transmission.
It's fair to say, at no time in the history of Oldsmobile since the
introduction of the Curved Dash model did the company make such an
impact as it did with the introduction of the Rocket V-8 on
September 15, 1948. Oldsmobile introduced what is considered
America's first modern overhead valve V-8 engine. Available in both
88 and 98 models, the new engine offered impressive stats for the
day - 7:25 to 1 compression ratio, 135 bhp at 3,600 rpm and 263
lb/ft of torque at 1,800 rpm.
Styling was all-new, too. Called Futuramic by Olds marketers, the
sleek Harley Earl design was concurrent with the introduction of
the industry's first production "hardtop convertible" dubbed
Holiday. An Olds 88 convertible paced the Indy 500. And, NASCAR
stock car racers quickly found out that new V-8 was the hot ticket.
Of nine races on the 1949 season, Olds took the checkered flag six
times.
An all-new wagon was offered in the 76 and 88 Series. The
Fisher-supplied body came equipped with leather upholstery and
mahogany panels. By mid-year, the wood trim was gone and Olds
joined the ranks of those offering all-steel wagons. Just 1,355
were produced. Data does not exist as to how many wood trim vs.
all-steel wagons were built. Regardless, one can assume this is a
rare vehicle due to the switch in production.
Finished in Seafoam Green with contrasting cream-colored wheels,
this handsome wagon is the beneficiary of a professional ground-up
restoration, completed in October 2015. It is equipped with 135 bhp
303 cu. in. V-8, Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, pushbutton AM
radio, and clock. Outside, the beautiful wood trim is accented by
the proper rear fender skirts and period-appropriate Silvertown
wide-whitewall tires. Paint, chrome, wood trim, and the red leather
interior all present beautifully. Since restoration the car has
been used sparingly and as a result, the consignor reports that it
drives great and is in beautiful condition throughout.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo20.
