Lot 111

St. John's 2011

1953 Oldsmobile 98 Convertible

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$41,250 USD | Sold

United States | Plymouth, Michigan

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Chassis No.
539M44930

210 bhp (est.), 303 cu. in. overhead valve V-8 engine, Dynaflow automatic transmission, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 124"

- Offered from the Estate of Don Kizziar

- Dual quad carburetion with rare Dynaflow transmission

The flagship Oldsmobile for 1953 was the Fiesta convertible, a unique model introduced in that year’s Motorama show. Oldsmobile, however, was convertible-rich that year, offering soft-tops in all series: 88, Super 88 and 98. Perhaps surprisingly, it was the 98 convertible that was most popular, with 7,521 built.

This one, however, is exceptional on two counts. It is one of a small number of Oldsmobiles built at the end of the 1953 model year with a Buick Dynaflow transmission. On August 12, 1953, fire raged through the Hydra-Matic factory at Livonia, Michigan, halting all operations for more than two months. As a stop-gap measure, General Motors retooled Cadillacs and Oldsmobiles for Dynaflow transmissions and Pontiacs for Powerglides. This is one of the Dynaflow Oldsmobiles. Its engine is also unusual, enlivened by the addition of an aluminum intake manifold and dual four-barrel carburetors.

Purchased by Mr. Kizziar in 1990, this car was the subject of a body-off restoration in 1992. It earned First Place in Oldsmobile Club of America judging at Dallas, Texas that August. Although now an older restoration, it presents well in red with black canvas top. It is well optioned, equipped with power steering, Autronic Eye headlight dimmer, padded dashboard, dual exhausts, power windows and seat, wire wheel covers and a Super Deluxe signal-seeking radio.

The upholstery is dark red leather with white inset panels, all in nice condition with no tears. The engine compartment is clean as well. The carburetors have twin dry-element air cleaners, and like other 1953 Oldsmobiles, it has a 12-volt electrical system. Truly an exceptional Oldsmobile, this car is powerful, attractive and rather unusual.