Olds chose to refine the look of its cars for 1962 after several years of radical annual model changes. Full-size models were given a more massive looking front end after a 1961 downsizing. Starfire models received added brushed-aluminum side panels after several years of de-chroming and toning down following GM’s wild 1959 models. The nearly foot-wide side trim was anything but garish; call it handsome . . . and certainly distinctive. It easily distinguished a Starfire from anything else on the road. The new styling proved a winner, too, as Olds had its best sales year since 1956 while jumping from sixth to fourth place in industry production.

The most powerful engine in an Olds was the 394-cid, 345-hp Rocket V-8 exclusive to the Starfire model. With just 7,149 made, it was Oldsmobile’s most expensive car at $4,774 before options. A coupe and convertible were offered and all Starfires sported leather upholstered bucket seats, a console-controlled 4-S Hydra-Matic transmission, and a console-mounted tachometer. While all Starfires came equipped with power steering and brakes, this Provincial White example with matching white convertible top and leather interior is loaded with extras including power driver’s seat, power windows and vent windows, power convertible top, clock, AM radio with rear seat speaker and power antenna, Safety Sentinel, courtesy lamp package and two-speed windshield wipers.

For 1962, ads told us, “There is only one Starfire – the original, made by Oldsmobile!” and this triple-white beauty proves that there is truth in advertising. Sparkling style and spirited performance had, up to that time, never been so beautifully blended.