Pick of the Day: 1956 Oldsmobile 88

If I had to choose one My favorite era of automotive design is undoubtedly the 1950s. It was an era of eye-catching colors, excess chrome trim, rocket-inspired features and tailfins.

To quickly analyze some sample data from the ClassicCars.com marketplace, I decided to find the number of cars listed by private sellers and dealers for each decade between 1940 and 2000.

• 1940-1949 = 1,610 cars
• 1950-1959 = 4,455 vehicles
• 1960-1969 = 8,940 vehicles
• 1970-1979 = 7,039 vehicles
• 1980 to 1989 = 4,414 vehicles
• 1990-1999 = 3,631 vehicles

It’s a nearly perfect bell curve, with vehicle sales peaking in the 1960s. Which era is it? your Favorite?

Today’s pick is a 1956 Oldsmobile 88 two-door for sale on ClassicCars.com from a private seller in Chilliwack, British Columbia. (Click the link to see the list)

“Incredible restoration of this 1956 Oldsmobile 88 powered by a 455 rocket engine – a true highlight,” the listing reads. “This beauty is the real deal, lovingly restored and built from the ground up.”

The car has an eye-catching black copper exterior and is fitted with a set of Foose chrome wheels and BFGoodrich tires. The lowered stance is provided by adjustable air suspension and a four-link setup (photo of the trunk shows the suspension equipment). The cab features gray cloth and vinyl upholstery, and updates include auxiliary instrumentation, Grant steering wheel and audio system.

The 1954 to 1956 models were known as the second-generation 88 (along with other GM B-platform cars). The 88 was available in hardtop, coupe, sedan and wagon versions. In the mid-1950s, Oldsmobile wanted to convey a more youthful appearance than in previous years. “More and more young people are coming to terms with the idea of ​​’oldness,'” said one magazine ad. “They’re enjoying their vacation while they’re young. For them, it’s an investment in a unique, modern life. It’s an investment they can be proud of, just like their house.”

This modified car is powered by a 455ci Rocket V8 engine paired with a Turbo 400 automatic transmission. The seller says the starter, A/C, battery, Flowmaster exhaust system, MSD ignition and headers have been replaced.

“This Olds has been cared for – having traveled just 2,000km since build and has always been kept away from the elements,” says the seller. “It’s mostly for car shows and the occasional cruise.”

Want to go back to the wonderful 1950s? Asking price is $44,999 or best offer.

To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, find it under Daily Picks.