Vehicle Description
FROM THE MISSOULA AUTO MUSEUM COLLECTION: Vehicle to be offered for Auction sale WITHOUT RESERVE and SOLD to the highest bidder January 19th - 22nd, 2017 at Russo and Steele's 17th Annual Scottsdale Arizona Auction at the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Please contact us for more information.
At the dawn of the 1950s, American automobile buyers progressed from seeking basic, economical transportation and began to demand more comfort, power, and style than ever before. More than any other automaker, Oldsmobile led the charge on all fronts and especially in terms of performance with the release of the 303-cubic inch "Rocket" V-8 engine. A modern, compact, and powerful overhead-valve design, the "Rocket" almost instantly became the stuff of legends. It also influenced the era's popular culture as the inspiration for Ike Turner and his Rhythm Kings' massive 1951 hit "Rocket 88," which remains famous to music fans as arguably the first "true" rock 'n' roll song ever recorded.
The 1951-53 Oldsmobile Super 88 replaced the 1949-50 Deluxe 88. The previous 88 lineup with its full range of body styles was reduced to just two standard trim sedans that would be redesignated Deluxe 88 for 1952-53 to make room for the Supers, which also rode on the smaller but very roomy GM B-body platform. For 1952-53, the Super 88s were given a substantial power boost thanks to a higher-lift camshaft and new 'Quadra-Jet' four-barrel carburetor. An expanding line of power features and options, an ever-improving HydraMatic automatic transmission, power steering for 1952, and power brakes for 1953, kept 88 sales strong.
This 1953 Oldsmobile Super 88 is a largely original car. It has been repainted in Polar White over Cove Green. The bumpers have been re-chromed, but the green and gray cloth interior is all original with a matching green headliner and carpeting. The indicated mileage reading of 32,800 is believed correct. The Super 88 has been cleaned and repainted underneath and it is tidy, if not over-detailed. Considerable care has been taken with the engine compartment, which is correctly equipped and exceedingly clean. The body contours and paint are very good, and the bright work shows only modest age. Options and features include a radio, heater, clock, and tinted windshield. A brochure for the full 1953 Oldsmobile line is included with the sale of this Super 88. All Oldsmobile 88s are remarkable; this one is 'Super' and we are sure its new owner will agree.
