Vehicle Description
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 Oldsmobile's
"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 Oldsmobile's 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 car's extensive professional restoration and showed the
car extensively, including in 3 separate east coast Concours
D'Elegance 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 you're buying your first classic 50s car or you're
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!
*371 Cu. In. V8
*J-2 3 Dual Barrel Carburetors
*Hydra-Matic Automatic
*Power Steering & Brakes
*Air Conditioning by Vintage Air
*1 of 7,128 Produced
*3 Time Concours Participant
*Festival Red/Alcan White Exterior
*Red & Ivory Leather Interior
*White Vinyl Power Convertible Top
*Power Seat & Windows
*Odometer Reads: 52,082 Miles