Basic information and history

The 1955 Oldsmobile 88 represents the marque during a period when the Rocket V8 defined Oldsmobile's identity in post-war America. The Super 88 positioning meant a more performance-oriented specification with four-port carburetors and a clear connection to the horsepower trend of the mid-fifties. This car combines the design language of the time with robust V8 technology and a specification that appeals to discerning enthusiasts.

The current example is reportedly a Super 88, equipped with a Rocket V8 and four-port carburetor. The car was sold new in Chicago, later parked in a museum in British Columbia, Canada, and was imported to Sweden in July 2021. The odometer reading is stated to be 57,878 kilometers (35,949 miles) but the odometer reading cannot be guaranteed.

An extensive complete off-body restoration was carried out in 1999 with the aim of restoring the car to its original condition. In connection with the restoration, a NOS interior was installed, such as carpets, seat upholstery, door panels, soft top and padded dashboard. After the restoration, the car was reportedly stored in a museum in Canada until its import in 2021. Some documentation from the restoration is available, as are some receipts and history.

Equipment and options

• Rocket V8 with Super 88 specification
• Four-port carburetor
• Optional: safety-padded dashboard (priced at $17 in 1955)

Modifications and improvements: Reportedly no body modifications, the car has been restored to original specification. Complete off-body restoration carried out in 1999 with repaint. NOS interior fitted during the renovation. New master brake cylinder 2021. Ongoing annual oil service since 2021 and new battery 2025.

Condition

Body and exterior: The body was refurbished in 1999 with a repaint. The paint is described as being in good condition, with a minor paint chip under the tailgate. Windows in good condition. Chrome, moldings, headlight lenses and emblems are said to be in very good condition, almost like new. The left door sill has some scratches from the bottom edge of the door.

Interior: NOS interior fitted during the renovation, including new carpets, seat upholstery, door panels and padded dashboard. The soft top is brand new. There is a crack on the back of the passenger side seat frame, facing the rear seat. The steering wheel, controls and buttons are in good condition for their age with an even and nice patina.

Tires and rims: Tires in very good condition with good tread depth.

Mechanics and function: Engine completely overhauled in 1999 in conjunction with frame lift and repaint. Gearbox and driveline completely overhauled at the same time. Brakes are described as working well and the master brake cylinder was replaced in 2021. Regular oil change and filter change every summer since 2021. New battery in 2025.

Service history

Last service is stated to have been performed in 2025, with oil and oil filter changed every summer since purchase in 2021. The battery is new in 2025. Last approved inspection was carried out on July 27, 2021. The car is exempt from inspection.

There are reportedly no comprehensive service records. However, there is some documentation and some receipts linked to the renovation from 1999, as well as an overall history.

All information in the ad is provided by the seller.

Summary

A 1955 Oldsmobile 88 in Super 88 specification with Rocket V8 and four-port carburetor, complete off-body restoration in 1999 with a focus on original design. NOS interior including padded dashboard and new soft top gives a period correct look. The car has lived a quiet life in a museum environment in Canada before being imported to Sweden in 2021.

Minor notes include a paint chip under the tailgate, scratches on the left sill and a crack in a seat frame. The mechanics are described as having been overhauled during the renovation, with additional measures later such as a new master brake cylinder in 2021 and ongoing service and a new battery in 2025. For those looking for a fifties Oldsmobile with the correct specification and documented restoration history, this car offers a good combination of period design in truly good condition.