This beauty has been sitting in Frank’s (one of the Bandelier Bandits) basement for a while but he’s decided to sell it. I believe he’s asking $6,500 for it.

The 1955 Oldsmobile was part of GM’s effort to modernize its fleet and capture the optimism of postwar America. It was the second model year featuring the brand’s “Futuramic” styling, known for sleek lines, abundant chrome, and jet-age design cues. Oldsmobile offered three series that year:

• 88 (Eighty-Eight)
• Super 88
• 98 (Ninety-Eight)

Design and Features

• Redesigned with a longer, lower, and wider body, plus a new wraparound windshield.
• Lavish chrome trim and dramatic two-tone paint schemes.
• Rocket emblems emphasized Oldsmobile’s identity as GM’s “Rocket Division.”
• Interiors were plush, particularly on the 98 series, with deluxe fabrics and optional power features.

Powertrain

• Powered by the 324 cubic inch “Rocket” V8 engine.
• Base 88: approx. 185 horsepower
• Super 88 and 98: higher-compression versions with 202 horsepower
• Most models featured Hydra-Matic automatic transmission; a 3-speed manual was also available.

Trim and Model Differences

• 88: Entry-level with basic trim, popular among younger buyers.
• Super 88: Mid-tier with a more powerful engine and upgraded features.
• 98: Top-of-the-line, with a longer wheelbase, more chrome, upscale interior, and luxury options.

Sales and Popularity

• 1955 was a strong sales year, with over 583,000 Oldsmobiles sold.
• The brand ranked #5 in U.S. auto sales, benefiting from a booming economy and growing suburban car culture.

Cultural Context

• Oldsmobile was considered an aspirational brand for the American middle class.
• The “Rocket 88” legacy helped influence early rock ’n’ roll, with Jackie Brenston’s 1951 hit often cited as one of the first true rock songs.

This beauty is the latest acquisition by my friend Paul. I think he said this only has 20,000 miles on the odometer (or was it 2,000?) and is in mint –what’s better than “mint”– condition.

I was a junior in high school with these first appeared and we’d never seen anything like them. Best music… best cars… lucky me.

“The Willys Jeep Station Wagon, Jeep Utility Wagon and Jeep Panel Delivery are automobiles produced by Willys and Kaiser Jeep in the United States from 1946 to 1964, with production in Argentina and Brazil continuing until 1970 and 1977, respectively. They were the first mass-market all-steel station wagons designed and built as a passenger vehicle. With over 300,000 wagons and its variants built in the U.S., it was one of Willys’ most successful post-World War II models. For some time after the 1949 introduction of a four-wheel drive option, the 2WD was sold as “Station Wagon”, while the 4WD was marketed as “Utility Wagon”. The 4WD Willys Jeep Wagon is often considered the first production sport utility vehicle.” (Wikipedia)

Two new arrivals at Paul’s Home for Vintage Pickups this week. Not really a home since they’ll both be snapped up once Paul has given them a little love. He makes sure they run and are safe to drive but not much more (well, new tires of course). The Brown Bomber is a 1972 Ford F-150 and The Yellow Peril is a 1970 Ford F-250.

When I see ancient vehicles like these I am certain they will never be driven again… and there is someone, somewhere, who could make that happen.