Pick of the Day: 1961 Oldsmobile Spark

Most convertibles get attentionbut there’s just something about a 1960s tank top that’s more eye-catching. Perhaps most people are not used to seeing cars from 60 years ago every day. Maybe it’s the nostalgia that certain generations feel when they see them. I think it’s mostly because of their appearance. Many of them have an immediate presence and a perennial sense of calm. Our Pick of the Day, a 1961 Oldsmobile Starfire listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a Fort Worth, Texas dealer, is a perfect example.

In the early 1960s, Oldsmobile fans were familiar with the name “Starfire.” Over the past decade it has been used sporadically in show car and ’98 convertible versions. In 1961, it became its own model (and the best-looking version of all subsequent Starfire models, if you ask me). Everywhere you look, there is something attractive or interesting. Two pairs of round headlights angle the grille downward toward the red badge that hangs above the chrome bumper. The pointed bright strip on the hood reaches the highest point behind the word OLDSMOBILE and extends directly to the hood.

The best angle for the Starfire is its silhouette. A strip of brushed aluminum starts at the front fender and runs across each side before tapering to a rounded point at the vehicle’s similarly shaped rear. Not only does this add eye-catching contrast (especially on a car like this Garnet Mist), but combined with the flat-top rear wheel opening, it also creates the illusion of the Starfire squatting over the rear wheels to accelerate, even when parked.

Oldsmobile saved the biggest visual feast for last—literally. Below the round taillights and their ribbed half-covers is a chrome bumper that flares out at a 45-degree angle and ends in a distinctive point. If you’ve never seen a ’61 Starfire in person before, that’s okay. Once you take one look, you’ll never forget it.

According to the selling dealer’s website, this particular Starfire is basically a “survivor,” but it has received a few updates. The 394ci V8 is factory rated at 330 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque, and the Hydra-Matic three-speed automatic transmission was recently serviced.

Inside, the gray leather upholstery and gray carpeting are new. Amenities include a power driver’s seat, center console, power controls for the white soft top, power windows, steering and brakes. There’s also air conditioning, but it’s not currently working, so that needs to be sorted out before you take off in this rocket-age car.

If you can’t stop looking at this 1961 Oldsmobile Starfire, for the asking price of $28,995 you can park it in your driveway and watch it whenever you want. When you do, expect lots of company.

Click here or on one of the images above to see the day’s featured listings on ClassicCars.com.