In the early days of competitive motorsports, the Oldsmobile name loomed large both on the street and the race track. For 1953, Oldsmobile racked up nine Grand National wins with their Rocket V-8 power including a victory by Buck Baker in the famed Southern 500. The publicity that came with Oldsmobile’s victories didn’t hurt either as 319,414 were built for the calendar year placing Olds in seventh place for U.S. auto production. Aerodynamics had yet to play a big part in racing, but for 1953 Oldsmobile’s cars were long, low, and loaded with dazzling chrome.
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Oldsmobile’s fine styling is superbly displayed in the Starfire 98 Convertible, which was Oldsmobile’s midline car for 1953 and also proved to be their most popular. This 898 wears an older restoration that has been perfectly maintained and looks like new. Finished in Oldsmobile’s Agate Red, this daring hue speaks directly to the bold and vibrant colors that the 1950s were known for. This Starfire 98 rides on a 120-inch wheelbase and wears a set of wide white wall tires with Oldsmobile’s wire hub caps. A black canvas top provides a nice contrast and Oldsmobile’s roomy interior holds six passengers. Power comes from the 303 cubic-inch “Rocket” V-8 with 165 horsepower. Most impressive is Oldsmobile’s front-end styling that features acres of chrome in true 1950s fashion. Oldsmobile even successfully captured the emerging jet-age with a futuristic rocket styled spacecraft hood ornament that would made Buck Rogers blush with envy.
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Oldsmobiles for 1953 would prove to be the last of their kind as a whole new look took hold for 1954 that would lead to the jet-inspired tail fin, but the smooth and well-balanced styling for 1953 made for a car that was great looking from any angle. This Starfire 98 convertible with its impeccable condition and Rocket power is a car that’s perfect for the Friday night cruise.
