The first-generation Oldsmobile F-85 was a compact car produced by the Oldsmobile division of General Motors from 1961 to 1963. Introduced in 1961 as Oldsmobile’s version of General Motors’ “Y” Body, unibody senior compacts shared with Buick and Pontiac,  the F-85 was intended to compete with other entry-level cars like the Ford Falcon and the Chevrolet Corvair. Unfortunately, the first-generation F-85 enjoyed limited success.

Under the hood, the 1964 F-85 came with a range of engine options. The base engine was a 225 cubic inch (3.7-liter) V6 sourced from Buick, which produced 155 horsepower. Optional engines included a 330 cubic inch (5.4-liter) V8 engine with 290 horsepower and a high-performance 330 cubic inch V8 with 310 horsepower. Transmission options included a 3-speed manual, 4-speed manual, or a 2-speed automatic.

The 1964 F85 received positive reviews for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and decent performance. It was seen as a reliable and well-built compact car with a touch of luxury. However, it faced tough competition from other compact models in the market, and sales numbers were not as high as Oldsmobile had hoped. However, the bright spot was how many top-trim F-85 Cutlass models were sold in 1964. Consequently, by 1965 Oldsmobile marketers focused on the Cutlass and 442 trim levels for its intermediate A-Body offering.

The seller of the 1964 Oldsmobile F-85 featured here indicates his car features both radio and heater delete options, making this 1964 Oldsmobile F-85 an entry-level “stripper” model, especially in two-door post-coupe form. Based on the undercarriage details, the seller believes a prior owner completed a frame-off restoration on a solid west coast example, as all of the sheet metal appears to be original to the car with no signs of any patchwork needed.  While the car’s VIN indicates it left the Fremont, California assembly plant with a Buick-sourced V6, this 1964 Oldsmobile F-85 now features a 290 horsepower version of Oldsmobile’s 330 cubic inch “Jetfire” V8.  Sending the V8’s horsepower to the rear wheels is a floor-shifted four-speed manual.  In addition to the clean undercarriage, the seller notes their F-85 features a stainless steel dual exhaust system.

While this F-85 left the factory without a radio, the seller currently has an under-dash-mounted modern Kenwood stereo connected to a remote-controlled CD changer with speakers placed in the rear seat. The current owner took care not to modify the car’s rear shelf tray, so the next caretaker can return the car’s interior to stock if desired.  This 1964 Oldsmobile F-85 features period-correct five-spoke after-market wheels, steering wheel, and yellow low-beam headlights, the sale includes the original uncracked steering wheel and correct “T3” clear headlights.

We what like about this 1964 Oldsmobile F-85 is the “Sleeper” vibe it gives off.  Other than the period-correct Mickey Thompson style Mag Wheels and rear traction bars, this entry-level F-85 doesn’t provide any clues of the potent 330 cubic inch Rocket V8 lurking underneath the car’s hood.