The striking Oldsmobile Starfire caused a sensation from the moment it was first introduced. Factory writings declared; “Starfire – sleek and distinctive in styling…luxurious in leather-appointed interiors…blazing, brilliant performer!” Performance can be found through many ingredients; what better way to insure the desired operation than what’s found under the hood. The responsiveness of the Starfire begins with the eponymous Starfire V-8; a large and strong 394-cid unit with dual exhaust that was specified by Oldsmobile as having a spirited 345 horsepower and is teamed with the console-shift Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This respected powertrain made the Oldsmobile Starfire what the manufacturer termed: “America’s foremost full-size, sports-type automobile!”

Oldsmobile introduced the Starfire in mid-1961; it was Oldsmobile's entry into the personal luxury market to compete with the torpedo Thunderbirds introduced in 1961. This model is considered as one of the most desirable convertibles of the era, and it is built on the Super Eighty-Eight's 123-inch wheelbase platform. These cars were the most luxurious, expensive and top-of-the-line Oldsmobiles of the early 1960s.

Olds chose to refine the look of its cars for 1962 after several years of sweeping 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 untamed 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. Oldsmobile sold a mere 7,149 convertible Starfires during the 1962 model year, plus 34,839 Holiday Two-Door Hardtops; it was Oldsmobile’s most expensive car at $4,774 before options.

The list of standard equipment included all Super 88 standards plus bucket seats, a center console that accents the exterior trim elements and houses a factory tach, the power windows controls and a locking compartment. Additionally there is a courtesy lamp package, two-speed wipers, power brakes, power steering, and power windows. Further equipment on this car is found with power seats, clock, power window vents, AM radio with rear speaker and power antenna, deluxe wheel covers and whitewall tires.

This exciting Oldsmobile Starfire has been cosmetically restored and is repainted in its original Provincial White. It displays its original white soft-top and has new white interior with black carpet. The dash has been restored with all lights, gauges and clock stated to be in working order; the distinctive passenger side turquoise dash board accent was featured in all similar models. The sheetmetal and engine are also reported as original to the car. The owner believes that the approximately 71,000 miles are original; however, the title does state exempt. This Starfire Convertible is accompanied by the factory owner’s manual and original support manuals.

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.