In mid-1961, with the Jet Age in full swing, Oldsmobile introduced the Starfire, a high-style, high-performance luxury car that recaptured Oldsmobile’s rich performance heritage. Sharing a name with the pre-eminent American jet fighter of the day, the Starfire aimed squarely at the personal luxury sports car market dominated by the Ford Thunderbird. The Starfire was built on a 123-in. wheelbase shared with the Eighty-Eight line and offered a host of distinctive features with outlandish modern styling drawn directly from fighter plane runways around the world.

The convertible Starfire was among the most desirable Oldsmobiles for 1961, and the example offered here makes it plain to see why. This Starfire has been fully restored to as-new condition and offers a taste of what an Olds dealer floor must have looked like in 1961. It retains its original 394-cu. in. V-8 which provides some 330 hp, nearly enough to ensure a proper takeoff. Fitted with the highly desirable factory air conditioning (a $378 option!), power steering, power brakes, power windows, rare power vent windows, matching wheel covers, trunk opener, clock, and the iconic “Wonderbar” radio with dual antennas, this Starfire was fully loaded from new and is as comfortable as it is beautiful. The interior was likewise fully restored, including correct-type full leather interior as per original. Superbly finished inside and out, it performs as new in all respects and is sure to be a centerpiece of any Oldsmobile collection.

The limited-production Starfire convertible was the highest priced Oldsmobile for 1961. The example offered here is a superb opportunity to experience a bit of early 1960s style and luxury. With numerous awards, including the prestigious AACA Senior First National, you’d be hard pressed to find a better example anywhere. It is an ideal choice to serve as wingman at any number of shows or tours.