While Oldsmobile enjoyed a well-deserved reputation for engineering excellence and value for money throughout its existence, the GM division also stood for performance since the powerful new Rocket V-8 engine debuted for 1949. From the start, Oldsmobile's new proprietary V-8 engine dominated NASCAR competition and drove buyers into dealer showrooms. Combining the lighter chassis and body of Olds' 88 series with the new 303 cubic-inch V-8 powerplant, the 88 Series was joined by the upmarket Super 88 series by 1951 and sold strongly as American buyers favored better-equipped premium automobiles. During the expansive 1950s, Oldsmobile's handsome, fast, and well-equipped Super 88 captured the public imagination and even inspired the hit 1951 song Rocket 88 by Ike Turner and his Rhythm Kings arguably the first true Rock N Roll song ever. 
 
As the styling excesses of the late 1950s gave way to cleaner and crisper themes by the early 1960s, GM's styling studios applied their genius to Oldsmobile and its GM sister divisions. For its part, Oldsmobile's model lines expanded for 1961 with the compact new F-85 and F-85 Deluxe joining the Dynamic 88, Super 88, Super 88-based Starfire Convertible, and Classic 98 series. The Super 88 was key to Olds' sales success, with its winning formula combining the more-powerful 325-horsepower, 394 cubic-inch V-8 powerplant of the 98 with the somewhat shorter and lighter body and chassis of the 88. Equipped with all Dynamic 88 features and amenities, the Super 88 added two-speed windshield wipers and a distinctive Safety-Vee steering wheel, plus a parking brake lamp, courtesy lights, and an oil filter.
 
This glamorous and beautifully presented 1961 Oldsmobile Super 88 convertible is quite rare as one of just 2,624 produced. Benefiting handsomely from a full body-off-frame restoration, this former Virginia-based vehicle is powered by the 10.0:1 compression Super 88 V-8 engine, factory-rated at 325 horsepower and paired with an optional Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. Colors are striking with a White exterior finish and Black power-operated convertible top over an attractive and correct Blue interior with White trim. Factory air conditioning and power windows heighten enjoyment and proper steel wheels mounting full-size wheel covers and wide Whitewall tires finish off this rare and highly collectible and enjoyable 1961 Oldsmobile Super 88 Convertible. Featuring a commanding presence and offered in collector-grade condition, this 1961 Oldsmobile Super 88 Convertible is a handsome example of the GM division's proven success formula. Be sure to see it for yourself by contacting us today for viewing arrangements, full details, and prepare to add it to your collection in time for the summer show and driving season!