Summary:
A race ready Limo
Faults:
The hood hinges, being an old design, were sprung with many parts. If you were not careful, when you closed the hood, the hinges could (and did) bend out sideways toward the side of the car, rendering them absolutely useless.
The Rochester 4 barrel carburetor was very difficult to set up properly, as was the dual point ignition.
General Comments:
Even with the problems I described, when the engine was set up properly, I could barely keep tires on the rims. The car was very comfortable and roomy.
I would love to come across one of these model years again, either road ready, or for restoration.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 25th January, 2002
25th Jun 2005, 10:59
I have access to a 65 Olds 98 that is ready to be restored. It is an Arizona vehicle that has a Cadillac-designed body. It has just over 100k miles. Contact me by adding a comment and I'll get back to you.
14th Jul 2006, 12:16
I have a 1965 Olds 98 4 door, 455ci that a bought from my father which he bought in 1965. It has 17200 original miles on it and has never been in an accident. Interior is fine, but needs some cleaning which I am getting done. It's being painted the original champagne color and all the chrome is in excellent condition. This car has never been in a accident. Everything works except the clock. Will be taking to local car show in Virginia beginnig next month. Car rides wonderful just as I remembered as a teenager riding next to my Dad.
8th Sep 2008, 21:44
We still have the 1965 Oldsmobile 98. I bought back in 1973 when it had 11K miles on it. My son has it now.
If yours has a 455 cu in V-8, somebody replaced it. All '65 Olds 98's and Starfires came with a 425 V-8, either 365 or 375 horsepower depending upon the cam. The 425 is a short-stroke version of the later, (1968-'76) 455 V-8, and has quicker pickup. '65 was the last year for the silky smooth responsive Rochester 4GC carb, (with 4-corner idle). 1966 up they used the boggy Quadra-Jet, which did offer a bit better mileage but poor response.
Anyhow the 98 still runs great but uses Premium fuel, (ultra high compression) so we drive a Lincoln Town Car to get groceries. It's a barely adequate substitute for REAL American cars, like the Olds!