The 88 is a full-size car that Oldsmobile produced from 1949 until 1999 and was an image leader for GM when first introduced. It was one of the best performing vehicles on the market at the time due to its relatively small sized, lightweight, high compression V8 engine whose performance enabled the Olds 88 to be considered the first muscle car by some even though the title is disputed. Specific to the 1957 model year is the Golden Rocket 88 whose only badging was 88’s under each taillight. It was equipped with a 371ci Rocket V8 rated at 277hp. Styling highlights were more evolutionary than radical, with a three-piece rear window design marketed as the “Twin-Strut Rear Window.” This particular example is a two-family car that the original owner traded for a new vehicle in 1977. The original owner left his name & number for the 2nd owner and they became life-long family friends shortly after. In the early 80’s the 2nd owner repainted it in its original color of Banff Blue. The 2nd owner sold it back to the original owner (and his son) in 1987. The original owner gifted the car to his son in 2016 and his son has been the sole owner since. At just over 100,000 miles the current owner had the original Rocket V8 and 4 speed Jetaway auto transmission rebuilt and both run incredibly. The engine was rebuilt with hardened seats so no lead additive is needed but it does like the higher octane fuel. At the same time the driveline was rebuilt so was the radiator and the carb, the generator was replaced with an alternator, the vacuum wipers were replaced with electric, the ignition was upgraded to an electronic ignition, new leaf springs were installed and a digital display for the temp, pressure, voltage and fuel level was added where the clock was. It also received a new gas tank and sensor, the oil bath air cleaner was converted to paper and the stereo was upgraded to a Vintage Audio AM/FM stereo with an AUX input. The end result is a car that loves to be driven. The interior is all original and has held up incredibly well considering its age but you will see where a couple of repairs were made and a couple are still needed. The paint and trim show great from 10 feet away but upon close inspection some signs of aging are present. It has been serviced recently, everything is working properly and she is need of nothing but a new home. We have priced it fairly so if you would like to be the 3rd family to bring this iconic classic home we suggest that you contact us before it is too late!
