Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 Convertible

At first glance…

Could this be a cousin of the original Batmobile? It definitely needed a closer look as I had no idea what this lengthy beauty was. Was it an Impala? Possibly a Lincoln? Nope, this was an Oldsmobile! Of course I had to snap some pics and then headed straight Google to find out the year and some info on this bad boy. Through the wonder of the internet I not only found out the model year but also the website that previously sold it, score! Meet a fourth generation, 1959 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 Convertible.

History

The 88 series from Oldsmobile first appeared back in 1949 and continued on in multiples forms until finally retiring in 1999. Through its 50 year run, Oldsmobile completely remodeled the 88 ten different times at an average of once every 5 years. The fourth generation 88 was launched in 1959 and featured longer, wider and lower styling. The engine isn’t anything to write home about considering the sheer size of this monster as it kept the 3rd gen’s V8 rated at 270 hp. Chrome accents were featured throughout the car and the rear was given a “Jetsons” sweeping look with protruding brake lights. What look like futuristic exhaust vents on the corners of the bumper are actually highly detailed backup lights. Only 8491 Dynamic 88 Convertibles were produced in 1959 with a base price of just $3286.

Thoughts

The car was in great shape with pitted-free chrome, a super clean interior and a pretty nice paint job. There was small bubbling in various areas of the paint and it wasn’t ready for a car show but was definitely a nice ride to look at. Given the length and size of this car, it would make for a perfect weekend car in a rural, suburban type community. Considering the tight streets, crazy drivers and lack of parking in Miami, it wouldn’t be my first, second or even third choice if I was buying a classic car for weekend use. Overall I enjoyed checking out this beauty and admiring the long lines, chrome accents and intricate detailing throughout this ’59 88 Convertible.