1951 Oldsmobile Super 88 Convertible – Taken Off Market
May 20, 2021 Update – With no acceptable offers coming in thus far and the convertible season upon us, the current caretaker decided to keep this stunning Oldsmobile at least for the summer of 2021.
March 4, 2021 Update – The auction for this cool ’51 Oldsmobile Convertible ended without meeting its reserve price, but it is still available for sale. Please call us directly at 877-468-6497 to make an offer.
Oldsmobile debuted the 88 badge for the 1949 model year when it launched its innovative new overhead valve V8 engine. For 1951, Olds discontinued the six-cylinder 70 line and the 88 became the GM Division’s entry-level car, which meant that all Oldsmobiles were powered by Rocket V8s. Also new for 1951 was the more upscale GM B-Body-based Super 88 line which included restyled rear body panels, a more luxurious interior, and a slightly longer 120-inch wheelbase. The Super 88 could be had in several body styles with the top of the model line being the Super 88 De Luxe Convertible Coupe featured here.
GuysWithRides.com is pleased to offer this frame-on restored, Chariot Red over Red Leather, 1951 Oldsmobile Super 88 De Luxe Convertible Coupe for $45,500 out of a private collection located in Central New Jersey. The current caretaker purchased this Super 88 three years ago at Mecum Kansas City and has maintained the car in a climate-controlled environment ever since. Used sparingly since purchase, the private owner is ready to pass the torch to a new caretaker who can enjoy this luxurious early fifties classic.
We rate this Super 88 a #2 “Excellent” condition car, and a check of the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms the current caretaker has it priced nearly $3,100 less than the Hagerty’s #2 estimate of $48,100. Similarly, researching the NADA Guides Classic Car Online Valuation Tool confirms the owner has their Super 88 priced at the value end of the “Low”, “Average”, and “High” retail value range of $26,840, $68,970, and $124,630, respectively. If you are serious about purchasing this beautiful classic, you can start the conversation by calling Bert at (609) 234-2515 and if he doesn’t answer, please be sure to leave a message so that he can call you back.
Benefitting from an older professional restoration combined with an upgrade to twelve volt electrics, the paint, interior, and chrome show virtually no signs of wear. The white convertible top is power operated and is in like-new condition. A vinyl boot matching the interior and stored in the trunk when not in use covers the lowered top for a clean look.
This Super 88 De Luxe Convertible Coupe features Oldmobile’s famous overhead valve, 303 cubic inch “Rocket” V8 producing 135 horsepower. Unlike many other Super 88s from the period, this example features the optional Hydra-Matic automatic transmission for easy cruising.
The red leather interior presents in like-new condition while the clean light tan carpets contrast the seat trim nicely. This Super 88 features two rare dealer-installed accessories: a dash-mounted compass (early-fifties GPS at its finest!) and a very unique steering-wheel mounted clock that relies on the driver turns to wind itself! Even more interesting is the sale includes the original packaging for these items.
A subtle modern convenience taking advantage of the 12 volt electrical upgrade is a glove-box mounted stereo featuring satellite radio.
All of the trunk carpeting and factory supplied floor mats are in place along with the spare tire and jack components as well as the aforementioned twin tonneau covers.
Other than several small dents commensurate with removal and installation, the correct chrome full-size wheel covers mounted on exterior-paint-matched steel wheels present in better than new condition. The wide whitewalls are period correct.
While not available for viewing during our photography session, this Super 88 comes complete with full documentation. If you’re looking for a well optioned, American luxury convertible from the early fifties, this may be the Oldsmobile for you. Thank you for looking and good luck with the purchase!
That Olds Super 88 is Super Cool