1957 Oldsmobile Super 88 Convertible: A Detailed Look and Test Drive

Exterior Elegance and Restoration

• ✨ The 1957 Oldsmobile Super 88 Convertible boasts stunning chrome and paint, indicating a significant investment in its restoration.
• 🚗 The front grille is described as resembling a "gigantic whale with a gigantic mouth," featuring "Ozemobile" badging and beautiful chrome accents.
• 💎 All exterior trim, including the headlights, marker lights, and decorative airplanes, appears to be in near-new condition.
• 🌈 The convertible top is electric, and the car features a striking red and white color scheme, with fender skirts and a Continental kit adding to its classic appeal.

Interior Craftsmanship and Features

• 🛋️ The interior is noted as being brand new, with new carpeting and upholstery, complemented by excellent chrome on the dashboard.
• 🎶 The dash features beautiful gauges with clear lenses and faces, maintaining an authentic 1957 aesthetic, along with an aftermarket radio.
• 🧳 The trunk is neatly finished, painted, and includes a spare tire and a Sony disc player.

Vanguard Motor Sales Operations

• 🛠️ Vanguard Motor Sales operates with 15 full-time mechanics and 25 lifts, ensuring thorough inspections of all inventory.
• ✈️ The company actively sources vehicles by traveling extensively and meticulously inspecting cars top to bottom before purchase.
• 🤝 Vanguard owns all its inventory, avoiding consignment, and fully inspects each car before delivery.

Performance and Driving Experience

• 💨 The Super 88 is powered by a 371 cubic inch engine with a tri-power setup (three two-barrel carburetors).
• 🛣️ During the test drive, the convertible is described as driving smoothly and straight, even with no hands on the wheel, at around 50 mph.
• 🚗 Oldsmobiles are noted for their superior cruising ability compared to other models of the era.

Undercarriage and Engine Bay Details

• 🚀 The underside reveals a meticulously restored frame, possibly powder-coated, with new hardware, brake lines, and U-bolts.
• 💨 The exhaust system is neatly tucked, passing through an X-frame, and features stock-appearing mufflers.
• ⚙️ The car is equipped with a 3-speed Hydro-matic transmission, power steering, and an aftermarket air conditioning unit.
• 🌟 New wire wheels with wide white tires (225/75R15) are fitted all around, enhancing the car's classic look.