1965 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Dynamic 88 review from North America
"An absolute dream"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The car had its manifold replaced in the first year we had it.
It was pretty trouble free until something major snapped in the engine, in 1983 with 115,000 miles. I then had the engine overhauled.
There was a badly rusted spot, at that time, on the rear frame where it curves around the rear axle. I had it plated by a welder.
It then ran well for many more years, until its manifold again cracked and was again welded. But the lovely distinctive engine sound was lost.
The rear axle detached itself on one side in 2003, right where the rusty frame curved around it twenty years earlier.
General comments?
The car was a wheel-spinner. It had terrific power, and for that reason was lousy in winter, especially with the cheap tires then. It sat out the winters, probably the reason for its long life.
But in good weather it was a complete delight to drive. I still have it, stored away until I can find a few thousand dollars to get it fixed up as an antique.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1965 |
| First year of ownership | 1966 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 425 cu. in. Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 15000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 169000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 2nd February, 2009 |