1955 Oldsmobile 88 Super review from North America

For a 53 year old car, this thing is still amazing.

According to the previous owner it burned a valve at 112,000 miles. Except for general service, that is all that ever went wrong with it while he had it.

These cars are good for about 125,000 miles, then they need some overhauling.

In 1976, after driving the car 112,000 miles, the previous owner did a complete rebuild on the car. The car was well worn due to use and enjoyment, not from any type of defective workmanship. If they are garage kept, well maintained and driven carefully, these cars will last a lifetime.

This car is very quick by 1950s standards, and will easily cruise at 80 miles per hour.

The aerodynamics are good enough so that driver and passengers in the front seat are not windblown when the top is down.

Seats are very comfortable for long distances, and visibility is good.

The driver has to lean forward to reach some of the minor controls.

Steering and braking are easy thanks to power assist.

The four speed "Hydromatic" transmission shifts smoothly, quickly and at the right time.

These cars were over engineered for reliability.

Except for the braking system and front suspension, these cars are fairly simple and straightforward to maintain and repair.

The interior is bright and cheerful. Puts you in a good mood.

The only drawbacks are:

1) The engine is so heavy it makes the car a little nose heavy.

2) The bendix treadle vac power brakes are reliable and work well, but are a BEAR to fix at overhaul time.

3) You will find out VERY quickly that this is NOT a sports car, and you have to drive it around a corner. However, once you get past the squealing tires and leaning, the car is stable and predictable.

4) The top leaks in the rain. Solution: don't drive in the rain.

5) The taillight lenses haze over and crack over time.