1957 Oldsmobile Starfire 98 Convertible (Dammerman Collection) Lot #216

This impressive convertible was the full size flagship for the Oldsmobile lineup in 1957 and in this year rebranded as “Starfire” to keep up with the emerging space age.

It is hard to ignore the Olds Starfire 98 given its size particularly with the optional continental kit found on this car. The included rear fender skirts further add to the sense of massive forward movement. As an example of mid-50s GM styling the Olds 98 features lots of chrome inside and outside and on this car it is in excellent shape.

At one time Olds had a strong performance image but the Oldsmobile line was struggling in the mid 50s thanks to Chrysler's new 300 series. The answer was the new 371 cu. in. Rocket OHV V-8 found on this car along with what is known as the J-2 option that could develop 300 h.p. Only a limited number of these J-2 cars were built.

A complex system, the J-2 option included three Rochester two-barrel carburetors and a “wide throated” intake manifold. In operation the center carb controlled the fuel flow during “normal” driving conditions. With added throttle input the second carb would kick in. At full throttle the third carb engaged getting the engine up to the desired 300 h.p. and race car performance.

Included in the performance package is a Jetaway Hydromantic transmission.

The pink color and size of this Olds immediately draws your eye. The interior is striking in complementary silver/black/white vinyl. The oval signs inside the car include the instrument cluster and the steering wheel hub.

As a luxury cruiser this car features power steering, power windows and power top plus the Wonderbar AM radio that could seek out radio station signals. The vinyl top is white to compliment the pink.

The odometer shows 98,575 miles.

This big beauty can both cruise in style and push you back in the bench seats when you put your foot down.

Estimate: $65,000-$80,000