Vehicle Description
1961 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88
In a move to modernize its lineup, Oldsmobile introduced a
completely new 88 for 1961. The full-size car was now shorter,
lower, and narrower than its predecessor, while utilizing the same
123-in. wheelbase. With styling inspired by the burgeoning "Space
Race", General Motors "Rocket" division produced a car that looked
ballistically fast even while sitting still. The redesigned 88
'Bubble Top' coupe was fast, spacious, luxurious, and stylish,
everything you'd expect from an Oldsmobile.
The truly exceptional example offered here showcases the attributes
that only a low-mileage, well-preserved original car can possess.
With just 40,444 miles recorded since new, the car remains in
mostly factory original condition. The pristine condition of the
tri-colored original interior and carpet is extraordinary, proving
along with all factory date-coded glass that this handsome
one-year-only coupe car received remarkable care throughout its
life. The original 394ci V8 purrs nearly silently, just waiting to
be unleashed. It is nicely equipped with desirable options
including power steering, power brakes, Roto-Hydramatic
transmission, AM radio...it truly is one of the finest 1961
Oldsmobile's available.
Exterior
Mostly original factory J code Tropical Mist Poly covers the rocket
styled lines and steel panels of this futuristic car. A so called
"bubble top" due to its front and rear curved glass. Interestingly
the entire rear quarter of this car is a large trim spear in
itself. Nice chrome for the bumpers, a wonderful sculpted rear
panel housing the inset taillights, and pointy futuristic styling.
Right down to the DYNAMIC 88 badging which is Buck Rogers-esque
type font. 14-inch Oldsmobile badged open chrome wheel covers with
some Tropical Mist color behind are wrapped with wide white 8.00-14
bias ply tires. No rust for these exterior surfaces, and trimmings
remain very nicely preserved.
Interior
In true tri color design the future styling continues using mid
century modern broadcloth pattern inserts made up of light blue,
silver and dark green circles with inset starbursts looking very
much like showroom. Deep darker turquoise vinyl surrounds these
insert panels, and some light green vinyl panels are reserved for
the centers. Up front the starship styled dash which is padded
turquoise vinyl on top, and heavy usage of chromed oval inserts,
rounded edges, and ribbed aluminum insert highlight panels house
all the gauges and knobs. The original turquoise steering wheel is
fronting this beautiful dash and below is a rubber and carpeted
flooring unique to the Oldsmobile cars of this era. Above a nice
tight light green vinyl headliner covers the heads of the
passengers. Noted is an aftermarket reverb to the stereo for this
interior as well.
Drivetrain
Looking very original and unrestored, just low mileage and 60 years
young, this 394ci Rocket V8 topped with a single rebuilt (2016)
2-barrel carburetor, a Roto-Hydromatic 3-speed transmission on
back, and a 2.87 gear rear axle to put power to the rear wheels.
Well maintained and some service records from original owner are
included with this piece of history.
Undercarriage
Underneath, no rust, just black protective spray which has faded
somewhat but is still sticking strong and doing its job. Power drum
brakes are on all 4 corners, and coil springs are used all around
as well.
Drive-Ability
A quick startup, and all worked just stellar with rocket-like
acceleration, good bias free braking, and all encompassing handling
for cornering and smooth ride.
If you are looking for spaceship styling, rocket acceleration, and
mid century modern interior looks, then look no further as this is
not your father's Oldsmobile, it can be uniquely, and mostly
originally yours.
VIN DECODE
612L20203
61-1961
2-Dynamic 88
L-Linden, NJ Assy Plant
20203-Sequential Unit Number
TRIM TAG
06D-4th Week June Build
STYLE 61 3237-1961 Dynamic 88 Holiday Coupe
BODY BL2633-Linden Body #
TRIM 317-Green Cloth & Vinyl
PAINT J JJ- Tropical Mist Poly
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special
interest automobile showroom, featuring over 600 vehicles for sale
with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle
barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia
on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is
www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914.
Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the
vehicle in person.