Oldsmobile set a performance precedence in 1949 by installing its new 303 CI Rocket V-8 engine into the new, smaller, lightweight 88, inadvertently sparking the idea of the muscle car. Popular indeed, the 88 quickly established itself as the one to beat in competition and at light-to-light combat on the boulevard, and it helped Oldsmobile turn its aging image around, attracting younger people to the showrooms. The 88 spanned well into the 1990s through 10 generations. By the mid-1950s, of course, both Hudson and Chrysler had largely nudged their ways into Oldsmobile’s racing territory, but it didn’t matter, as the division had well established itself as a performance and technology leader and popularity continued to be strong. For 1957, Oldsmobile introduced the $83 J2 option, which included a trio of 2-barrel carburetors, a low-restriction air cleaner and higher compression from the new 371 CI V-8 engine. All told, it was good for 300 HP and available on any car equipped with a 371. So equipped, the Olds could thunder from zero to 60 MPH in less than 8 seconds, and for those looking to shave that time down a bit, Oldsmobile offered an even more aggressive engine setup with a racing camshaft and heavy-duty internals for a whopping $385. This Oldsmobile Super 88 convertible is one of just 7,128 built in 1957 and is equipped with a 371 CI V-8 with J2 Tri- Power. Having been in the same family for over 18 years, the car underwent a comprehensive restoration and emerged finished in Festival Red with a correct white nylon convertible top and a red leather interior with white trim. Equipped with power steering, power brakes, power windows, a power seat, a Wonderbar AM radio, a clock, a power antenna, courtesy lights, dual exhaust, a Continental kit and twin sideview mirrors, it’s fairly obvious how upscale the midlevel Oldsmobile could become. Donated by the seller with the proceeds set to benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, this Super 88 also features Vintage Air conditioning.
