312 bhp, 371.1 cu. in. OHV V-8 engine, automatic transmission, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 122.0 in.

Oldsmobile celebrated 1957 as the company’s 60th anniversary. The Olds Motor Vehicle Company had been organized in Lansing, Michigan in August 1897, although Ransom Olds had been experimenting with engines and self-propelled vehicles for nearly a decade. As a result, the Oldsmobile Division of General Motors, which was a founding firm of GM in 1908, renamed the entry-level series “Golden Rocket 88.”

This 1957 Golden Rocket Oldsmobile has been equipped with the coveted J-2 triple-carburetor option. Available on all series, the J-2 package was originally intended for NASCAR competition, but NASCAR Chief Bill France banned it, claiming it was not a production option. Olds promptly released J-2 for public sale in mid-year. Some 2,500 cars were sold with the option, but tuners in the know could buy the parts and install their own. So-equipped, the engine’s horsepower rose from 277 to 312 brake horsepower.

In addition to the J-2 package, the car has power steering and power brakes, windshield washers, an electric clock, a heater, and a Wonderbar signal-seeking AM radio with power antenna, power seats, and a power top. Attractive in light blue, it has a dark blue vinyl convertible top with matching boot cover and blue and white vinyl upholstery, all in excellent condition. The car is also fitted with seat belts. The body contours, paint, and chrome are all exceptional, and an examination of the black undercarriage confirms its professional, body-off restoration. Whitewall tires are mounted on steel wheels and dressed with full-wheel Oldsmobile covers.

A sleeper in baby blue, this Oldsmobile will find plenty of respect on the highway or on the show field.