In the 1950s, Oldsmobile refined its winning strategy by providing more of everything – more power, more luxury and more style for the American automobile buyer. In turn, Oldsmobile moved up to fourth place in sales for 1955. In large part, Oldsmobile’s remarkable success was due to its modern and stylish Holiday two- and four-door hardtop models. However, its stylish 98 Starfire Convertible formed a growing part of Oldsmobile’s model range as well. The “Go-Ahead” look was visible in the Starfire’s attire – Oldsmobile’s showpiece oozed with action and was an excellent example of color harmonizing. This artistic presentation was nicely blended with a panoramic windshield, sweep-cut body and fenders to give the car a long, low-level flair.

For 1955, the entire Oldsmobile line continued with the strong “X-member” frame design that was introduced in 1954. The larger 98 series utilized a 126-inch wheelbase, a full four inches longer than that of the 88 models. In addition, the Super 88 and 98 lines shared the top Oldsmobile “Rocket” V-8 engine, with 324 cubic inch displacement and a robust 202 horsepower. Oldsmobile’s growing performance reputation was aided by drivers Dick Rathmann and Jim Pascal of the Wood Racing Team.

While the entire Oldsmobile line offered many standard features not available on other makes, the 98 series raised the bar even higher, with the inclusion of the Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, a padded dash, an electric clock, power steering, windshield washers, deluxe steering wheels, plus courtesy and backup lights. The handsome 98 Starfire Convertible was the top Oldsmobile model for 1955, adding an air of exclusivity and open-air styling to an already dashing and technically advanced automobile. With only 9,149 similar cars built in 1955, it is easy to see the uncommon nature of this desirable car. A well-used resource that was first published in 1979 ventured to estimate that fewer than 60 of these cars were then known, greatly increasing the rareness factor for this model.

This outstanding 98 Starfire Convertible from 1955 is presented in a beautiful Coral and Polar White two-tone exterior finish, complemented by an abundance of lustrous brightwork and a white convertible top, which is power-operated. Notable features include chrome-plated dual rearview mirrors, period correct wide whitewall tires, attractive factory “spinner” wheel covers and a chrome-plated exhaust tip. The interior features a matching coral and white upholstery and a coral-toned padded upper dash panel with a white painted lower half. In addition, this Starfire is equipped with power brakes, power steering, a pushbutton-operated AM radio, heater and an electric clock. According to factory documents, all 1955 Oldsmobile 98 Starfire Convertibles also came equipped with a power front seat and power windows.

Not commonly seen today, these spectacular open cars from the 1950s have recently found rapidly growing interest from astute collectors. This spectacular example will certainly complement the finest of collections.