Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at Auctions America’s Auburn Fall event, September 1-4, 2016.
Chassis No.
559W7692
Estimate:
$ 75,000 - $100,000 US
In the 1950s, Oldsmobile refined its winning strategy by providing more of everything – more power, more luxury and more style for the American automobile buyer. Their “Go-Ahead” look was visible in the Starfire’s attire – Oldsmobile’s showpiece exuded action and was an excellent example of color harmonizing. This artistic presentation was nicely blended with a panoramic windshield, sweep-cut body and fenders to give the car a long, low-level flair.
The Super 88 and 98 lines shared the top Oldsmobile “Rocket” 324-cid, 202-hp V-8 engine as seen in this car. While the entire Oldsmobile line offered many standard features not available on other makes, the 98 series raised the bar even higher, with the inclusion of the Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, a padded dash, an electric clock, power steering, windshield washers, deluxe steering wheels, plus courtesy and backup lights.
This outstanding 98 Starfire Convertible from 1955 is presented in a beautiful Coral and Polar White two-tone exterior finish, complemented by an abundance of lustrous brightwork and a white convertible top, which is power-operated. Notable features include dual rearview mirrors, whitewall tires, factory “spinner” wheel covers and a chrome-plated exhaust extension. The interior features a matching coral and white upholstery. In addition, this Starfire is equipped with power brakes, power steering, a pushbutton AM radio, heater and electric clock. According to factory documents, all 1955 Oldsmobile 98 Starfire Convertibles also came equipped with a power front seat and power windows.
The handsome 98 Starfire Convertible was the top Oldsmobile model for 1955, adding an air of exclusivity and open-air styling to an already dashing and technically advanced automobile. With only 9,149 similar cars built in 1955, it is easy to see the uncommon nature of this desirable car. A well-used resource that was first published in 1979 ventured to estimate that fewer than 60 of these cars were then known, greatly increasing the rareness factor for this model.
