Lot 3079

Auburn Fall 2015

1959 Oldsmobile 98

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$50,050 USD | Sold

United States | Auburn, Indiana

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  • 394-cid, 315-hp Rocket V-8
  • Hydra-Matic automatic transmission
  • Top-of-the-line Olds in 1959
  • Older ground-up restoration
  • Still quite respectably presented
  • Power-operated top
  • Autronic-Eye
  • BFG Silvertown bias-ply whitewalls
  • Air conditioning
  • Many power functions

For the third year running, Oldsmobiles received a bumper-to-bumper styling change. Company ad writers dubbed it the “linear look” as lengths grew ten inches from the previous model year. Interiors were also redone with the most notable change being the Safety Spectrum Speedometer. Speed was indicated by a moving band of color – green from 0- to 35-mph, orange from 35- to 65-mph, and red for speeds over 65-mph. Visibility was improved, too, via a new Vista-Panoramic windshield. Riding a 126.3-inch wheelbase, Olds built 7,514 of the big 98 convertibles with a base price of $4,366; making it the most expensive model in its lineup by far.

This top-of-the-line 98 is finished in a mint green tone that is quite similar to the factory Crystal Green tone. It has a white power top and a two-tone green and white interior. The 98 convertible has an older ground-up restoration with a straight body, good paint, good chrome and stainless trim. It is disclosed that there is some pitting in the chrome trim and that the carpets fit a bit loose and have minor soiling. The respectably detailed engine bay houses a 394-cid, 315-hp Rocket V-8 with four-barrel carburetor paired with a Hydra-Matic automatic transmission.

The Olds is generously equipped with air conditioning, AM radio, Autronic-Eye, Silvertown wide whitewall bias-ply tires, factory hubcaps; power windows, antenna, six-way seat, steering and brakes. Many extras on this rare example of Oldsmobile’s create an exciting platform.