1957 Oldsmobile Starfire 98 Convertible
2023.0026.0001, Savoy Collection
Engine: 371 cu. in. (6L) Cast-iron block, OHV, V-8
Output: 300 HP @ 4,400 RPM
Transmission: 4-Speed Jetaway Automatic
Wheelbase: 126 in.
Overall Length: 216 in.
Weight: 4,747 lbs.
Top Speed: 113 MPH
No. Produced: 8,278
Original Price: $3,838
Manufacturer: Oldsmobile
The year 1957 marked a change in Oldsmobile’s styling. The brand forsook the fin-craze and produced cars with rear ends flowing like graceful steel tunnels, reminiscent of a surfer’s pipeline, and capped off with chrome wrapped three-piece rear taillights. To honor General Motors’ upcoming 50th anniversary, the Oldsmobile 88, Super 88, and 98 were dubbed the “Golden Rockets.” After their successful launch, Oldsmobile rose to fifth place in overall sales nationwide. And it wasn’t just a pretty exterior that made the cars a hit with customers.
The Jetaway automatic transmission dramatically improved, eliminating the abrupt gear changes associated with the early Hydra-Matic—a 371-cubic-inch. The V-8 engine, equipped with triple Rochester two-barrel carburetors, was specifically designed for NASCAR competition and gave Oldsmobile enthusiasts a powerful ride on and off the race track. This car is equipped with the J2 induction system. Unfortunately for Oldsmobile, NASCAR banned engines with multiple carburetors, limiting their number of Grand National wins to only five. Shortly after this, Oldsmobile pulled out of factory-based racing efforts.