1988 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale review from North America
"A great starter-mobile!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
60,000 mile checkup revealed worn out front brake pads. New fuel filter (still running on original) and radiator flush also were necessary.
Drivers side armrest fell off at about 61,000 miles.
Drivers side seatbelt occasionally hitches, takes several tugs to get loosened up enough to buckle.
Rear drivers side door is hard to open and makes a groaning noise.
Windshield trim on drivers side is loose, in high winds it bangs against the top of the car.
Cracks in steering wheel from being left out in the sun.
Paint is faded in many spots.
General comments?
Purchased the car in July of last year for $2500 dollars. Extremely low mileage for a car of that age.
It's surprisingly powerful, much more than it's looks and size would have you believe. Handles well in making tight turns and quick lane changes on the highway.
Comfort is top notch. It comfortably seats 5 passengers, 6 in a pinch.
I have a fairly stripped down model... no power windows, power locks, or cassette. But the factory radio is ample in volume and quality, and the windows roll up and down easily.
A/C and heat are more than adequate, though A/C does suck away too much power from the engine.
Gas mileage is much better than expected. Average around 20MPG city, close to 30MPG Highway.
Two minor quibbles:
1) Goes through windshield wipers like crazy.
2) Transmission sometimes lurches going uphill or when extreme acceleration is needed.
This was my first car, and I don't think I could've made a better choice. It's been comfortable and reliable, and maintenance costs have been low.
Recommended reviews
| 1988 - Delta 88 Royale Brougham 3.8 A nice touch of luxury but requiring many repairs |
| 1988 - Delta 88 Brougham 3.8L gas Nice solid used car that makes you feel good |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1988 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8L V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 59000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 66000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 21st July, 2003 |