The 1950s were a period of bold and expressive American automobile design, with big fins and lots of chrome reflecting the confidence of the postwar era. Against this backdrop, the 1956 Oldsmobile presented a more subtle look—refined and elegant, with its distinctive style. This stunning Super 88 convertible is recently available on eBay and gives the lucky buyer an opportunity to own a rare and beautiful American car.
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Al Fresco Style
Just 9,561 Super 88 convertibles were built for the 1956 model year, making a car like this a rare sight. For comparison, Chevrolet sold more than 41,000 examples of its Bel Air - opens in new window or tab. ragtop in the same year. This low-mileage, rust-free Super 88 looks to be a fine example, having undergone an older restoration and stayed with the same owner for more than 30 years.
Positioned as the sportier of two Oldsmobile convertibles offered in 1956, the Super 88 rode on a shorter wheelbase than the larger 98 flagship. Its tidier dimensions made it more maneuverable, even if its overall demeanor was better suited to boulevard cruising than canyon carving.
Luxuriously Equipped
Under the hood, the Super 88 got a more powerful version of the 324-cubic-inch Rocket V-8, with a four-barrel carburetor - opens in new window or tab. bumping output to a claimed 240 horsepower. Also new was a four-speed Jetaway automatic transmission, offering quicker response than the previous automatic that dated from 1940. A new split front grille and updated dashboard design rounded out the updates for 1956.
Refinished in its original Citron Creme paint, this car shows no visible flaws in photos. All the original chrome trim - opens in new window or tab., badging, and the iconic rocket hood ornament - opens in new window or tab. look to be in excellent condition, as do the tinted windshield and side glass. Wide whitewall tires - opens in new window or tab. and dual chrome exhaust tips - opens in new window or tab. lend a sporty flair.
This Oldsmobile came well-equipped from the factory. Options include power windows, power seats, and power brakes and steering, along with a power convertible top - opens in new window or tab. and a push-button AM radio - opens in new window or tab.. The immaculate brown interior looks well-preserved and completely stock down to the heavily-chromed instrument pod. The odometer shows just 51,264 miles.
A Like-New, 68-Year-Old Car
Perhaps the most impressive thing about this stunning Oldsmobile is the condition of the underside. The frame rails, floors, and suspension components are almost as clean as the interior. They show no evidence of rust and minimal wear since the restoration.
The detailed engine compartment presents a similarly clean and stock appearance. A set of newer spark-plug wires - opens in new window or tab. are the only concession to modernity. Open the carpet-lined and immaculate trunk, and you’ll find a period-correct bias-ply spare tire in original condition.
In an age of restomods, where hot-rodders cram modern features into vintage cars, it’s wonderful to see a car like this maintained in original condition and painstakingly cared for. That makes this rare Oldsmobile convertible - opens in new window or tab. something you’re not likely to see ever again.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.