Oldsmobile 98 - Wikipedia

17/12/2017 Oldsmobile 98 - Wikipedia
Oldsmobile 98
The Oldsmobile 98 (sometimes spelled Ninety-Eight after 1958) is
the full-size flagship model of Oldsmobile that was produced from
Oldsmobile 98
1940 until 1996. The name — reflecting a "Series 90" fitted with an 8-
cylinder engine — first appeared in 1941 and was used again after
American consumer automobile production resumed post-World War
II. It was, as it would remain, the division's top-of-the-line model,
with lesser Oldsmobiles having lower numbers such as the A-body 66
and 68, and the B-body 76 and 78. The Series 60 was retired in 1949,
1978 Oldsmobile 98 Regency
the same year the Oldsmobile 78 was replaced by the 88. The
Oldsmobile 76 was retired after 1950. This left the two remaining Overview
number-names to carry on into the 1990s as the bread and butter of Manufacturer General Motors
the full-size Oldsmobile lineup until the Oldsmobile Regency replaced Also called Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser
the 98 in 1997. 98
Occasionally additional nomenclature was used with the name, such
Oldsmobile Futuramic 98
as L/S and Holiday, and the 98 Regency badge would become
Oldsmobile Starfire 98
increasingly common in the later years of the model. The 98 shared its
Oldsmobile Classic 98
General Motors C-body platform with Buick and Cadillac. Production 1940–1996
Body and chassis
As it was the top-line Oldsmobile, the series had the most
technologically advanced items available, such as the Hydramatic Class Full-size luxury car
automatic transmission, the Autronic Eye, an automatic headlight Chronology
dimmer, and Twilight Sentinel (a feature that automatically turned Predecessor Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser
the headlights on and off via a timer, as controlled by the driver), and 90
the highest-grade interior and exterior trim.
Successor Oldsmobile Aurora
Oldsmobile Regency/LSS
(United States only)
Contents
First generation (1941)
Second generation (1942–1947)
Third generation (1948–1953)
Fourth generation (1954–1956)
Fifth generation (1957–1958)
Sixth generation (1959–1960)
Seventh generation (1961–1964)
Eighth generation (1965–1970)
Ninth generation (1971–1976)
Ninety-Eight Regency
Tenth generation (1977–1984)
Eleventh generation (1985–1990)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oldsmobile_98 1/26
Touring Sedan
Twelfth generation (1991–1996)
Discontinuation
References
External links
First generation (1941)

Naming standards were in flux at Oldsmobile during the late 1930s
and 1940s. From 1932 through 1938 Oldsmobile had two series: "F"
First generation
and "L". Series F came with a straight-6 engine and Series L came
with a larger body and a straight-8 engine. Series F was renamed
Series 60 in 1939 and Series L was replaced with the Series 70 and 80,
with the Series 70 and 80 being powered by the straight-6 and the
straight-8 respectively. The Series 60 used the GM A-body and the
Series 70 and 80 used the B-body. In 1940 the even larger C-body was
introduced to Oldsmobile and it alone was powered by the straight-8.
In order to differentiate it from the previous year's Series 80 it was
named Series 90 (there was no Series 80 that year). The series were
also given names for the first time that year with the Series 60, 70,
and 90 being called the Special, Dynamic, and Custom Cruiser Overview
respectively. In 1941 both engines were offered on each series so to Model years 1941
differentiate between the two the second digit was used to denote the
Assembly South Gate, California, U.S.
number of cylinders, so the Custom Cruiser 90 was replaced with the
Lansing, Michigan, U.S.
Custom Cruiser 96 and 98. In 1942 Oldsmobile dropped the six
Linden, New Jersey, U.S.
cylinder Series 90 model leaving only the Custom Cruiser 98.
Designer Harley Earl
The new C-body that the 1940 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser 90 shared
Body and chassis
with Cadillac Series 62, Buick Roadmaster and Super, and the Pontiac
Body style 2-door coupe
Torpedo featured cutting-edge "torpedo" styling. Shoulder and hip
4-door sedan
room was over 5 in (127 mm) wider, running boards were eliminated,
2-door convertible
and the exterior was streamlined and 2–3 in (51–76 mm) lower. When
4-door convertible
combined with a column mounted shift lever the cars offered true six
passenger comfort. These changes had clearly been influenced by the Layout FR layout
Cadillac Sixty Special. The 90 rode on a wheelbase of 124.0 in Platform C-body
(3,150 mm). A total of 43,658 90s were sold in four body styles. The Related Cadillac Series 62
rarest was the 4-door convertible with only 50 being sold. Buick Roadmaster
In 1941 the wheelbase was increased to 125.0 in (3,175 mm). A deluxe
Buick Super
equipment package was now offered. The top-of-the line Oldsmobile
Pontiac Custom Torpedo
was available in three body styles on the 96 and in four body styles on Powertrain
the 98. Rarest of these was the 4-door convertible which was exclusive Engine 257 cu in (4.2 L) Oldsmobile
to the 98. Only 119 were sold in 1941 and this would be the only time I8
this body style was ever offered on the 98. The other three body styles
Transmission 3-speed synchromesh
were a convertible coupe, a club coupe and a 4-door sedan. This was
manual
also the only year in Oldsmobile history that a 96, a 90 series car with
a six-cylinder engine, was available. Hydramatic automatic 4-speed Hydramatic

transmission was a popular option. A total of 24,726 98s and 6,677 automatic
96s were sold in 1941. Dimensions
Wheelbase 125.0 in (3,175 mm)[1]
Length 213.0 in (5,410 mm)
Curb weight 3,500–4,000 lb (1,600–
1,800 kg)
Second generation (1942–1947)

In 1942 the Custom Cruiser 98 was once again the Oldsmobile entrant
into the luxury market. Gone was the single year offering of the 96. All
Second generation
cars in this series were powered by the straight eight engine. Also gone
in this shortened model year was the ultra rare 4-door convertible. An
exclusive 127.0 in (3,226 mm) inch wheelbase was used in the series.
A total of 6,659 98s were made before production was shut down due
to the war.
Again in 1946 the Custom Cruiser 98 was the top of the Oldsmobile
line. Three body styles were offered (a 4-door sedan, a 2-door Club
coupe and a 2-door convertible) and all were eight cylinder powered.
Technical features included electro hardened pistons, full pressure
lubrication and automatic choke with fast idle mode. Standard
Overview
equipment included front and rear bumper guards, vacuum booster
pump, dual sun visors, cigarette lighter and plastic radiator ornament, Model years 1942–1947
wraparound bumpers, Deluxe instrument cluster clock, rear armrest, Assembly South Gate, California, U.S.
and foam rubber sheet cushions. Tire size was 7.00 (178) by 15 inches Kansas City, Kansas, U.S.
(381 millimetres). Available upholstery was either leather, broadcloth, Lansing, Michigan, U.S.
or Bedford cord. 14,364 98s were sold in its first postwar year of Linden, New Jersey, U.S.
production. Designer Harley Earl
In 1947 the top of the line Custom Cruiser 98 again had three body Body and chassis
styles. This was the last year for the 98 1942 prewar body. All 98s had Body style 2-door coupe
the straight eight engine. Standard 98 equipment included safety 4-door sedan
glass, spare wheel and tire, dual horns, vacuum booster pump, 2-door convertible
cigarette lighter, and a solenoid starter system. Upholstery was either Layout FR layout
custom broadcloth or leather. Standard tire size was 7.00 (178) by 15
Platform C-body
inches (381 millimetres). An electric clock was standard in 1947.[2] A
record 37,140 98s were sold in 1947. Related Cadillac Series 62
Buick Roadmaster
Buick Super
Powertrain
Engine 257 cu in (4.2 L) Oldsmobile
I8
manual
4-speed Hydramatic
automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 127.0 in (3,226 mm)
Length 216.0 in (5,486 mm)[2]
Curb weight 3,800–4,300 lb (1,700–
2,000 kg)
Third generation (1948–1953)

Third generation
1952 Oldsmobile 98 convertible
Overview
Model years 1948–1953
1953 Oldsmobile 98 convertible Assembly South Gate, California, U.S.

Wilmington, Delaware, U.S.
Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
For the first time since 1940 Oldsmobile offered totally different
Kansas City, Kansas, U.S.
styling during a single model year. The top of the line 1948
Framingham,
Oldsmobile 98 drew heavily from the Futuramic styling concept that
Massachusetts, U.S.
would be used on all 1949 Oldsmobiles. Standard equipment on 98s
included a solenoid starter, fender skirts, E-Z-l rearview mirror, and
foam rubber seat cushions. The 98s also included front and rear
bumper guards, vacuum booster pump, plastic radiator ornament, Designer Harley Earl
dual horns, dual sun visors, and cigarette lighter. Deluxe equipment Body and chassis
added front and rear floor mats, Deluxe steering wheel, wheel trim Body style 2-door Club coupe
rings, rear seat armrests, and hydraulic window, seat and top controls 2-door Holiday hardtop
on all convertibles. Upholstery was either broadcloth or leather. The 4-door sedan
standard tire size was 6.50 x 16. With the introduction of new postwar 4-door fastback Town Sedan
styling Custom Cruiser 98 was renamed the Futuramic 98. The 2-door convertible
Custom Cruiser name would be revived to denote full-size Oldsmobile 2-door Fiesta convertible
station wagons in 1971. The new styling was apparently popular with a
Layout FR layout
record 65,235 98s sold, exceeding the number of 90s sold in 1940 for
the first time. Platform C-body
Related Cadillac Series 62/Series 61
The following year the new styling was joined by a new engine, the Buick Roadmaster
now famous Rocket V8. In February 1949, several months into the Buick Super
model year, General Motors introduced three highly styled "hardtop
Powertrain
convertible" coupes, the Oldsmobile 98 Holiday, the Cadillac Series
62 Coupe de Ville, and the Buick Roadmaster Riviera, the first Engine 257 cu in (4.2 L) Oldsmobile
hardtop coupes ever produced. The Holiday was exclusive to the 98 I8
series that year. Available in four special Holiday colors, as well as 304 cu in (5.0 L) Rocket V8
four two-tone combinations, it was priced the same as the convertible, Transmission 3-speed synchromesh
and was similarly equipped, with hydraulically operated windows and manual
seat. Only 3,006 Holidays were sold in its first year compared to 4-speed Hydramatic
20,049 Club coupes. Total sales reached 93,478 in 1949, setting yet automatic
another record.
Dimensions
The 1950 Oldsmobile 98 repeated its 1948 precedent of previewing Wheelbase 1948–49: 125.0 in
some of next years styling cues for the 88. The 98 was restyled after (3,175 mm)
only two years. It was the first totally slab sided Oldsmobile and the 1950–51: 122.0 in
first sedan with wraparound rear windows. A 4-door 98 fastback (3,099 mm)
appeared for one year only in 1950 and was called the Town Sedan, 1952–53: 124.0 in
selling only 1,778 units. Standard equipment included bumper guards, (3,150 mm)[3]
dual horns, parking lamps, dome light, rubber floor mats, aluminum Length 1948–49: 213.0 in
sill plates, foam rubber seat cushions, chrome interior trim, lined (5,410 mm)
luggage compartment and counterbalanced trunk lid. Deluxe 98 1950: 209.0 in (5,309 mm)
equipment included rear seat armrest, Deluxe electric clock, Deluxe 1951: 208.0 in (5,283 mm)
steering wheel and horn button, special door trim and stainless steel 1952: 213.0 in (5,410 mm)
wheel trim rings. Upholstery choices spanned nylon fabric, striped 1953: 215.0 in (5,461 mm)[2]
broadcloth or leather. Standard tire size was 7.6 (193) by 15 inches
Width 1951: 80.0 in (2,032 mm)
(381 millimetres). In 1950, Oldsmobile stopped naming the 98 series
1952: 76.0 in (1,930 mm)
and so from then through 1996, with the exception of 1957 when it
1953: 77.0 in (1,956 mm)
was called the Starfire 98, and in 1961 when it was called the Classic
98, it was simply known as the Oldsmobile 98. Sales of the 98 Holiday
Curb weight 3,700–4,700 lb (1,700–
nearly tripled to 8263, approaching the 11,989 sold of the Club coupe.
2,100 kg)
Given the rapidly growing popularity of the 2-door Holiday hardtop,
1950 was the last year for the pillared Club coupe. Total sales set yet another
record of 106,220.
The 98 topped the Oldsmobile line again for 1951 with Three body styles
available. The 4-door sedan and convertible came only with Deluxe equipment,
while the Holiday hardtop was available with either Deluxe or Standard trim.
The 98 standard equipment included bumper guards, cigarette lighter, dome
light, rubber floor mats, stainless steel moldings, lined trunk, illuminated
ashtray, foam rubber seat cushions and extra chrome moldings. Deluxe Oldsmobile 98 Fiesta style "spinner"
equipment was special rear door ornament, rear center armrests, Deluxe hubcap
electric clock, Deluxe steering wheel with horn ring and special chrome trim.
Upholstery choices were nylon cord, nylon cloth and leather. The pillared Club
coupe was no longer offered. With the only choice in a closed 2-door 98 now being the hardtop, Holiday sales nearly
doubled to 17,929 units.
In 1952 the 98 remained as the top of the line Oldsmobile. The series shared the higher output 160 HP Rocket V8 with the
Super 88s. Standard equipment on the three body styles included bumper guards, gray rubber floor mats front and rear,
electric clock, dual horns, aluminum door sill plates, chrome gravel guards, foam rubber seat cushions, turn signals,
carpeting front and rear, stainless steel wheel trim rings, windshield washer, and Deluxe steering wheel with horn ring.
Upholstery selection was broadcloth or six colors of leather. Standard tire size was 8.00 (203) by 15 inches (381
millimetres). For the first time power steering was an option. Another new option was the Autronic Eye, an automatic
headlight dimmer, which in its initial year was shared only with Cadillac.
New in 1953, the Fiesta joined the Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado and Buick
Roadmaster Skylark as top-of-the-line, limited-production specialty
convertibles introduced that year by General Motors to promote its design
leadership. It featured a cut-down belt line, a wraparound windshield that was
3 (76) inches lower than the standard 98's windshield, and special "spinner"
hubcaps, which became a trademark on later Oldsmobiles. Virtually every
Oldsmobile option was standard except air conditioning, regarded as
unnecessary at the time in a convertible.
1953 Oldsmobile 98 Fiesta Mechanically, the Fiesta had a special version of the 98 engine which gained 5
horsepower to 170 through manifold streamlining and compression increased
from 8.1:1 to 8.3:1. A four speed Hydramatic automatic transmission and faster
rear axle rato were designed to keep the 4459 pound shipping weight Fiesta (336 more than a standard 98 convertible) up
to Oldsmobile performance standards. At $5,715 (over $700 more than the Skylark) the Fiesta was nearly twice the $2963
price of a standard 98 convertible, with only 458 units produced to its 7,521.
Standard equipment for 1953 included bumper guards, electric clock, lined trunk, dual horns, cigarette lighter, chrome
moldings, twin interior sun visors, rear seat robe rails, special rear stainless steel trim, chrome window ventiplanes,
windshield washer, and Deluxe steering wheel with horn ring. In 1953 a padded safety dash also became standard on the
98.[2][4] For the first time air conditioning was an option.
The Fiesta convertible would be gone the next year but its name would be resurrected in 1957 for Oldsmobile station
wagons.
Fourth generation (1954–1956)

Fourth generation
1955 Oldsmobile 98
In 1954, Oldsmobiles were redesigned across the line, with a three Overview
body style 98 series at the top. Convertibles were dubbed Starfires,
after the previous year's Starfire dream car. A slightly higher
horsepower 324 cu in (5.3 L) Rocket V8 was shared with the Super 88
series. Standard 98 equipment included bumper guards, rubber
simulated carpets front Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.

and rear, electric clock, Kansas City, Kansas, U.S.
lined trunk, dual horns, Framingham,
cigarette lighter, Massachusetts, U.S.
aluminum door sill plates, Lansing, Michigan, U.S.
turn signals, chrome Linden, New Jersey, U.S.
rocker panel moldings, Arlington, Texas, U.S.
deck lid ornament, foam Designer Harley Earl
rubber seat cushions,
1955 Oldsmobile 98 interior Body and chassis
padded dash,[2] parking
brake light, courtesy light Body style 2-door Holiday hardtop
package, stainless steel 4-door sedan
wheel discs, windshield 4-door Holiday hardtop
washer, and Deluxe 2-door Starfire convertible
steering wheel with horn Layout FR layout
ring. Upholstery choices Platform C-body
were nylon and leather, in
Related Cadillac Series 62
a variety of colors.
Buick Roadmaster
1956 Oldsmobile 98 Holiday sedan Standard tire size was
Buick Super
8.00 (203) by 15 inches
(381 millimetres).
Powertrain
Engine 324 cu in (5.3 L) Rocket V8
manual
4-speed Hydramatic
automatic
Dimensions
1956 Oldsmobile 98 Holiday coupe Length 1954: 214.3 in (5,443 mm)[2]
1955: 212.0 in (5,385 mm)
In 1955 the Oldsmobile 98 again had a longer wheelbase than the 88. 1956: 212.3 in (5,392 mm)
Standard equipment included turn signals, bumper guards, stainless Width 78.3 in (1,989 mm)
steel molfings, dual horns, cigarette lighter, front and rear floor mats, Height 60.5 in (1,537 mm)
inside rearview mirror, foam rubber seat cushions, stainless steel
Curb weight 4,000–4,400 lb (1,800–
rocker panel moldings, front seatback robe cord, spun glass hood
2,000 kg)
insulation, rear window ventiplanes, electric clock, stainless steel
wheel discs, custom cushion lounge seats front and rear, hand brake light, courtesy light package, padded dash, Deluxe
steering wheel with horn ring, and windshield washer. Upholstery choices were covert and pattern cloth, leather and
pattern cloth, leather and nylon, and leather and dimple leather. Standard tire size was 7.70 (196) by 15 inches (381
millimetres). The optional air conditioning unit was moved to the engine bay instead of the trunk.[5] The turning diameter
was 43 ft.[6] The Hydramatic automatic transmission gear selector had an S on it, which was used for better performance
climbing hills.[7] At mid-year, Olds introduced the new pillarless four-door hardtop body, dubbed the Holiday sedan, in
the 98 series. The 4-door Oldsmobile 98 Holiday, along with the 4-door 88 Holiday and the 4-door Buick Century Riviera
and 4-door Special Riviera, were the first 4-door hardtops ever produced. Perhaps because of the popularity of the new 4-
door hardtop body style total 98 sales set a new record of 118,626.
Again in 1956 the top of the line Oldsmobile 98 series had an exclusive 126.0 in (3,200 mm) wheelbase, 4.0 in (100 mm)
longer than the 88. Power came from the 240 horsepower Rocket V8 shared with the Super 88. Standard equipment
included armrests, bumper guards, lined trunk, rotary door latches, dual horns, cigarette lighter, turn signals, rubber floor
mats, aluminum door sill plates, sun visors, front and rear carpeting, foam rubber seat cushions, courtesy lights, front
fender medallions, deck lid '98' script, back-up light moldings, electric clock, Jetaway Hydramatic Drive, padded dash,
power steering, windshield washers and Deluxe steering wheel. Upholstery choices were pattern cloth and leather in a
variety of colors and combinations. Standard tire size was 8.00 (203) by 15 inches (381 millimetres) made by either U.S.
Royal, Goodrich, or Firestone. The parking brake was now a foot pedal.[8]
A slightly modified 1954 Holiday Coupe was used as a press car during the final Carrera Panamericana in 1954.
Fifth generation (1957–1958)

Fifth generation
1957 Oldsmobile Starfire 98 Holiday

coupe
Overview
Framingham,
Massachusetts, U.S.
1957 Oldsmobile Starfire 98 Holiday
sedan
Arlington, Texas, U.S.
Designer Harley Earl
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door Holiday hardtop
4-door sedan
4-door Holiday hardtop
2-door convertible
Layout FR layout
Platform C-body
1957 Oldsmobile Starfire 98 Holiday Related Cadillac Series 62
coupe interior
Buick Limited
Buick Roadmaster
The Oldsmobile line underwent a sweeping reengineering in 1957, Buick Super
with a 3-piece rear window making a reappearance on some models. Powertrain
Once again the 4-door 98's were at the top, this year officially titled
Starfire 98.[10] Standard Engine 371 cu in (6.1 L) Rocket V8

equipment included Transmission 4-speed Hydramatic
armrests, turn signals, automatic
rubber floor mats, sun
Dimensions
visors, front fender
chrome script, exposed Wheelbase 126.5 in (3,213 mm)
chrome roof bows, side Length 216.7 in (5,504 mm)[9]
interior courtesy lights, Width 1957: 76.4 in (1,941 mm)[9]
electric windows,[2] special 1958: 78.5 in (1,994 mm)
1958 Oldsmobile 98
emblems, power steering,
Height 1957: 58.2 in (1,478 mm)[9]
power brakes, and Jetaway
1958: 57.4 in (1,458 mm)
Hydramatic. Upholstery choices included a variety of cloth,
Morocceen (vinyl), and leather. Standard tire size was 9.00 (229) by
Curb weight 4,700–4,900 lb (2,100–
14 inches (356 millimetres). The standard engine was now the
2,200 kg)
371 cu in (6.1 L) Rocket V8.[11] A safety recessed steering wheel was
added.[12] Front leg room was 43.8 inches (1,113 millimetres).[2]
A major styling change was seen in 1958. The 98 series again had its own exclusive wheelbase of 126.5 inches while
sharing the more powerful Rocket V8 with the Super 88. Four body styles were available. Standard series equipment
included four headlights, oil filter, turn signals, printed circuit instrument cluster, aluminum anodized grille, padded dash,
foam rubber padded seat cushions, courtesy lights, parking brake light, special side moldings, chrome rocker panel
moldings, Jetaway Hydramatic transmission, power steering and brakes, dual exhaust, electric clock, color accented wheel
discs, and chrome wheel frames. Interiors could be ordered in a variety of colored leathers, cloth, and Morocceen.
Standard tires were 8.50 (216) by 14 inches (356 millimetres). Air suspension was added as an option.[13] Also new was a
speed warning device, which could be set towards a certain speed and when the limit was reached, a buzzer would sound,
alerting the driver of the vehicle to slow down.[14]
Sixth generation (1959–1960)

Sixth generation
1959 Oldsmobile 98 Holiday 4-door

hardtop
1959 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight Holiday

For 1959, the Oldsmobile line-up was completely redesigned.
SceniCoupe
However, unlike other GM makes (such as Chevrolet and Cadillac[16])
Oldsmobile continued to use a full perimeter frame, instead of the GM Overview
X-frame.[17] The 98 shared its appearance with the Oldsmobile 88. Model years 1959-1960
Oldsmobile stayed with its top series format by offering four body
styles on an exclusive 126.3 in (3,208 mm) wheelbase. Standard
equipment included oil filter, turn signals, air scoop brakes, Safety
spectrum speedometer, rocker panel moldings, special emblems,
parking brake light, Framingham,

sponge vinyl headliner, Massachusetts, U.S.
deep twist carpeting, Lansing, Michigan, U.S.
electric clock, wheel trim Linden, New Jersey, U.S.
moldings, power steering, Arlington, Texas, U.S.
power brakes, and Jetaway Designer Bill Mitchell
Hydramatic Drive.
1959 Oldsmobile 98 Holiday 4-door Body and chassis
Interiors were selected
hardtop rear Body style 2-door Holiday hardtop
from leather, Moroccean,
or cloth in different colors. 4-door sedan
Standard tire size was 9.00 4-door Celebrity sedan
(229) by 14 inches (356 4-door Holiday hardtop
millimetres). The 394 cu in 2-door convertible
(6.5 L), the largest first Layout FR layout
generation Rocket V8, was Platform C-body
used from 1959 until 1964.
Related Cadillac Eldorado
Cadillac Sixty Special
1959 Oldsmobile 98 convertible rear Cadillac De Ville
Cadillac Series 62
Buick Electra
Powertrain
Transmission 4-speed Hydramatic
automatic
Dimensions
1959 Oldsmobile 98 interior
Length 1959: 223.0 in
(5,664 mm)[15]
In 1960, once again the top of the line Oldsmobile series was the 98.
1960: 220.9 in (5,611 mm)
Standard equipment included Safety-vee steering wheel, turn signals,
Width 1959: 80.8 in (2,052 mm)
air scoop brakes, electric windshield wipers, safety-spectrum
1960: 80.6 in (2,047 mm)
speedometer, carpets with rubber inserts, padded dash, courtesy
lamps, wheel trim rings, Star-lite headliner, two-speed windshield Height 1959: 56.0 in (1,422 mm)
wipers, chrome roof side moldings, Jetaway Hydramatic 1960: 56.1 in (1,425 mm)
transmission, power steering, power brakes, windshield washers, Curb weight 4,500–4,700 lb (2,000–
electric clock, and deep twist carpeting. Upholstery was fabric, leather, 2,100 kg)
or Morocceen in a variety of colors. Tire size was 9.00 (229) by 14
inches (356 millimetres). An anti-spin rear axle was optional.[18]
Seventh generation (1961–1964)

For 1961 only, it was renamed Classic 98; nevertheless, most factory literature refers to the line as the Ninety-Eight.[11] It
offered five body styles. The sedan was now called the Town Sedan. The 4-door 4-window hardtop body style was now
called the Sport Sedan instead of the Holiday Sedan. A new 4-door 6-window hardtop body style, previously exclusive to
Cadillac and the Buick Electra was now offered and the Holiday Sedan name was transferred to it. This was the first time
not all Oldsmobile

hardtops were called
Seventh generation
Holidays. Overall sales
plunged from 59,364 to
43,010, probably due to
the introduction of the
new Starfire series, the
1961 Oldsmobile 98 98's low point following
the production record set
in 1955. Standard
Overview
equipment included padded dash, Safety spectrum speedometer,
floating propeller, air scoop brakes, two-speed windshield wipers, Model years 1961–1964
Safety-Vee steering wheel, parking brake lamp, courtesy lamps, oil Assembly Wilmington, Delaware, U.S.
filter, windshield washer, electric clock, Roto Hydramatic Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
transmission, power steering and power brakes. Upholstery was vinyl, Kansas City, Kansas, U.S.
cloth or leather. Standard tire size was 8.50 x 14 inches. With the Framingham,
394 cu in (6.5 L) Rocket now standard equipment on the Oldsmobile Massachusetts, U.S.
88 a higher compression version was made standard equipment on Lansing, Michigan, U.S.
the 98 and Super 88 with horsepower rising to 325 in 1961 and 330 in Linden, New Jersey, U.S.
1962. It was dubbed the "Skyrocket" from 1961-63. Arlington, Texas, U.S.
Designer Bill Mitchell
Unfortunately for loyal Oldsmobile customers, GM management on
Woodward Avenue in Detroit were focusing on cost savings per Body and chassis
vehicle by this time, a philosophy later called "less car for more Body style 2-door hardtop
money" by the 1970s. One drawback of this thinking was that the 1961 4-door 4-window hardtop
through 1964 Oldsmobiles lost their dependable (but expensive to 4-door 6-window sedan
build) Jetaway Hydramatic transmissions. Replacing those time- 4-door 6-window hardtop
tested four speed units was a much cheaper to build three speed unit, 2-door convertible
the Roto Hydramatic. This transmission had no front fluid coupling at Layout FR layout
all, and utilized a single "fill-and-dump" coupling to perform double
Platform C-body
duty as both a fluid coupling in third speed while having a third
reaction member, which Olds called an "Accel-O-Rotor," which was Related Cadillac Eldorado
actually a small stator, thus giving some limited torque multiplication Cadillac Sixty Special
in first. In theory, the "Accel-O-Rotor" would provide the same Cadillac De Ville
multiplication range in first as both the first and second gears of the Cadillac Series 62
four speed unit without all the hardware...and cost. It was also unique Buick Electra
at that time, in that second speed was pure mechanical connection Powertrain
from engine to rear end...no fluid coupling involved. The big problem Engine 394 cu in (6.5 L) Rocket V8
with this unit in the Oldsmobiles (and lower line Pontiacs of the same
Transmission 3-speed Roto Hydramatic
era) was engine speed would race wildly in first, and then hit a "brick
automatic
wall" of a very steep RPM decline in second, which was equivalent to
third gear in the four speed Jetaway Hydramatic. This unit was very Dimensions
trouble prone and unreliable, and cost a great deal of performance Wheelbase 126.0 in (3,200 mm)
otherwise obtainable from the Rocket. It would linger for only these Length 1961: 218.0 in (5,537 mm)
three years, when it was replaced by the much more reliable, but less 1962: 220.0 in (5,588 mm)
efficient, Turbo Hydramatic in 1965. Customer complaints caused
many dealers and independent transmission shops to wholesale
replace the Roto Hydramatic in these cars with older (or 1963: 221.5 in (5,626 mm)
contemporary, from a Pontiac Star Chief or Bonneville) HM315 four 1964: 222.3 in (5,646 mm)
speed Hydramatic. Width 1961: 77.2 in (1,961 mm)
1962–63: 77.9 in
The largest 1962 Oldsmobiles were again the 98s. Five body styles
(1,979 mm)
were offered including three 4-doors plus an open and a closed 2-
1964: 78.0 in (1,981 mm)
door. The Holiday Coupe was renamed the Holiday Sport Coupe, and
the Sport Sedan was renamed the Holiday Sport Sedan, so once again, Height 1961–62: 56.6 in
at least temporarily, all hardtops were called Holidays. Ninety-Eights (1,438 mm)
were well appointed with standard equipment including padded dash, 1963: 57.1 in (1,450 mm)
guard beam frame, live rubber body cushions, coil springs, foam 1964: 56.5 in (1,435 mm)
rubber seats, two-speed windshield wipers, parking brake lights, Curb weight 4,400–4,700 lb (2,000–
courtesy lamp package, special moldings, Roto Hydramatic, power 2,100 kg)
brakes, power steering, power windows and power seat. Interiors were
leather, vinyl or cloth. Standard tire size was 8.50 x 14 inches.
Again, in 1963, the top-of-the-line Oldsmobile 98 had an exclusive 126.0 in (3,200 mm) wheelbase. A new body style was
the Custom Sports Coupe hardtop. It was the only body style with the 345 horsepower Starfire engine. The 4-door 6-
window hardtop was renamed the Luxury Sedan (often condensed to L/S). The convention of naming all hardtops
Holidays would not again return until 1965. Standard equipment included die-cast grille, deep pile carpeting, 21-gallon
fuel tank, full-flow oil filter, foam seat cushions, foot-operated parking brake, two-speed windshield wipers, special
molding package, Deluxe steering wheel, map light, heavy duty air cleaner, courtesy lights, Roto Hydramatic, power
brakes, power steering, special rocker panel moldings, self-regulating electric clock, dual rear seat cigarette lighters and
special headliner. Interiors were leather, vinyl or cloth. Standard tire size was 8.50 x 14 inches. Ninety-Eights were now
made only in Lansing, Linden, Kansas City, Southgate and Wilmington.
Malcolm X owned a 1963 Oldsmobile 98—black, 4-door, hardtop—and it can be seen in the north lobby of the Malcolm X
College on the near west side of Chicago.
In 1964 the top of the line 98 series was offered in six body styles in 2-door, 4-door and convertible configurations.
Standard equipment included: Roto Hydramatic; power steering, brakes, windows and seats; windshield washer; special
wheel discs; clock; courtesy and map lights and padded dash. Upholstery was a variety of colored cloth, vinyl and leather.
Standard tire size was 8.50 x 14 inches. Ninety-Eights were now built only in Lansing.
Eighth generation (1965–1970)

Eighth generation
1965 Oldsmobile 98
The 1965 98 was completely redesigned from the ground up along

with other full-sized General Motors cars but retained the larger C- 1965 Oldsmobile 98 convertible
body shared with Cadillac and Buick Electra in contrast with the B-
Overview
body used in the Model years 1965–1970

Oldsmobile 88. The Assembly Lansing, Michigan, U.S.
Ninety-Eight featured Linden, New Jersey, U.S.
many of the lines found on
88s but with more squared
off styling. The exclusive Body and chassis
98 wheelbase had five Body style 2-door hardtop
1966 Oldsmobile 98
body styles. The Custom 4-door sedan
Sport Coupe was gone and 4-door hardtop
the 4-door 6-window body styles were replaced with 4-door 4-window 2-door convertible
body styles. The Luxury Sedan was no longer a hardtop but featured a Layout FR layout
more luxurious interior along with more standard amenities than the
Platform GM C platform
Town Sedan such as power seats. Most 98 Luxury Sedans also had
vinyl roofs, which were offered only in black that year. For the first
Related Cadillac Eldorado
time since 1962 all hardtops were once again called Holidays.
Cadillac De Ville
Cadillac Calais
Standard equipment included automatic transmission, power steering Buick Electra
and brakes, power windows, clock, padded dash, foam padded seats, Powertrain
parking brake light, Deluxe steering wheel, special wheel covers,
windshield washer and two-speed electric wipers, courtesy and
455 cu in (7.5 L) Rocket V8
glovebox lamps, and front seat belts. Standard tire size was 8.55 x
14 inches. A new three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic automatic Transmission 3-speed TH-400, automatic
transmission with torque converter replaced the dismal three speed Dimensions
Roto Hydramatic that Oldsmobile had been using for the last three Wheelbase 1965–68: 126.0 in
model years. Along with the transmission and redesigned platform, (3,200 mm)
the engine was also new for 1965. It was a 425 cu in (7.0 L) Super 1969–70: 127.0 in
Rocket V8 that was more powerful and of a more efficient design than (3,226 mm)
the older 394 cu in (6.5 L) Rocket V8 previously used, yet it was much
Length 1965: 222.9 in (5,662 mm)
lighter in weight. The 98's standard and only engine offering for 1965
1966–67: 223.0 in
was the four-barrel "Ultra High Compression" version of the 425
(5,664 mm)
Super Rocket rated at 360 horsepower (270 kW). Ninety-Eights were
1968: 223.7 in (5,682 mm)
built only in Lansing.
1969: 224.4 in (5,700 mm)
Between 1965 and 1975 Oldsmobile commissioned Cotner-Bevington 1970: 225.2 in (5,720 mm)
(http://www.coachbuilt.com/bui/c/cotner_bevington/cotner_beving Width 80.0 in (2,032 mm)
ton.htm) to build professional cars, (ambulances and hearses), using Height 1965–68: 55.8 in
the large Ninety-Eight chassis. Ironically, during the '60's (1968), the (1,417 mm)
only Oldsmobile professionally made into a limousine was the smaller 1969–70: 54.8 in
Toronado, known as the AQC Jetway 707. (http://www.coachbuilt.co (1,392 mm)
m/bui/a/aqc/aqc.htm)
Curb weight 4,300–4,700 lb (2,000–
Some luxury market buyers purchased either the Starfires or the new 2,100 kg)
Toronados in 1966 but the 98 remained the full-size top-of-the-line
Oldsmobile. Five models, including a trio of 4-doors were available. Standard equipment included: Turbo-Hydramatic
transmission; power steering, brakes, windows and seats; special wheel covers; front and rear seat belts; carpeting;
windshield washer and two-speed wipers; foam seat cushions; electric clock and special armrests on selected models.
Upholstery was cloth, vinyl and leather. Standard tire size was 8.55 x 14 inches. Ninety-Eights were built in Lansing.
In 1967 the sporty elegance of the Starfire was gone. The 98 and the Toronado were now Oldsmobile's remaining luxury
cars. There were five 98 body styles available. Standard 98 trim included: armrests, power brakes, dual cigarette lighters,
electric clock, carpeting, lamp package, molding package, seat belts, power seats, power steering, Turbo-Hydramatic and
power windows. Upholstery was cloth, vinyl or leather. Standard tire size was 8.85 x 14 inches. Ninety-Eight models were
built in Lansing.
In 1968 Oldsmobile continued to produce five well appointed 98 body styles.

Standard equipment included: dual master cylinder, four way flasher, energy-
absorbing steering column, back-up lights, side marker lights, seat belts, cross-
flow radiator, rear armrest ashtrays, power brakes, electric clock, special
moldings, shoulder belts, Deluxe steering wheel, power steering, carpeted
trunk and Turbo-Hydramatic transmission. Upholstery was cloth, vinyl or
leather. Standard tire size was 8.85 x 14 inches. Engine displacement was
increased to the Rocket 455 cu in (7.5 L) V8 with 365 horsepower. Ninety-
1969 Oldsmobile 98 4-door hardtop Eight production was in Lansing.
The 1969 98 conventional front engine/rear drive car remained the top-of-the-
line Oldsmobile. It was the largest Oldsmobile product offered and now had a
127.0 in (3,226 mm) wheelbase. Six body styles were now available with a
hardtop version of the Luxury Sedan added to the lineup. New to the 98 series
were a recessed padded instrument panel, anti-theft lock within the steering
column, rear view mirror map light, mini-buckle seat belts, and deeply padded
1969 Oldsmobile 98 Holiday 2-door head restraints. Standard equipment included: power brakes, self-regulating
hardtop electric clock, full carpeting, courtesy lamps, paint stripes, power seat adjuster,
seat belts and shoulder harnasses, power steering, Deluxe steering wheel,
power windows, Turbo-Hydramatic transmission, custom sport seat, foam
padded front seat, and wheel discs (hub caps). Standard tire size was 8.85 x
14 inches. Upholstery was vinyl, cloth or leather. The 98's standard engine was
still the Rocket 455 which required premium leaded gas. All 98s were made in
Lansing and had the code letter M.
Some of the available 1969 options were a tilt-telescope steering wheel, instant
horn, four season air conditioning with comfortron, tinted glass windshield, 6-
way power seat, divided front seat with dual controls, power trunk release
1970 Oldsmobile 98 Coupe
(vacuum), power door locks, power front disc brakes, AM-FM stereo radio,
rear seat speaker, stereo tape player (8-track), power operated antenna, door
edge guards, cruise control, left outside remote control mirror, cornering
lamps, anti-spin rear axle, vinyl roof, flo-thru ventilation, and safety sentinel.
Of the 98 series, the 1969's were the only models to have an attached hood
1970 Oldsmobile 98 convertible extension. After receiving numerous complaints from dealership mechanics
about hitting their heads on the extension, Oldsmobile changed the style of the
hood in 1970, removing the extension, which resulted in a flat hood design.
In 1970, the 98s were the largest Oldsmobiles. They still shared the luxury side of Oldsmobile business with the Toronado.
Standard equipment included: Turbo-Hydramatic 400 transmission, power steering, power brakes with front discs, power
windows, power seats, Deluxe steering wheel, electric clock and full wheel discs. Standard tire size was J78-15. Interiors
were vinyl, cloth or leather. All 98s were made in Lansing indicated by the codel letter M in the Vehicle Identification
Number. The length grew to 225.2 inches.[19]
Ninth generation (1971–1976)

Ninth generation
1971 Oldsmobile 98 4-door hardtop
Overview
1972 Oldsmobile 98 4-door hardtop Model years 1971–1976
Assembly Lansing, Michigan, U.S.
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door hardtop
2-door coupe
4-door hardtop
1973 Oldsmobile 98 2-door hardtop
Layout FR layout
Platform C-body
Related Cadillac De Ville
Cadillac Calais
Buick Electra
Buick Estate
Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser
Pontiac Grand Safari
Pontiac Safari
1974 Oldsmobile 98 LS 2-door Chevrolet Kingswood Estate
hardtop Chevrolet Kingswood
Chevrolet Townsman
Oldsmobile built its biggest full-size car in 1971 although wheelbase Powertrain
was unchanged from 1970. The 98s were the roomiest Oldsmobiles Engine 455 cu in (7.5 L) Rocket V8
ever built thanks to the new GM full-size bodies which, at 64.3" front Transmission 3-speed TH-400, automatic
shoulder room and 63.4" rear shoulder room, set a record for interior
Dimensions
width that would not be matched by any car until the full-size GM
rear-wheel drive models of the early to mid-1990s. The 1971 through Wheelbase 127.0 in (3,226 mm)
1976 Ninety-Eight was very similar to the Oldsmobile 88 (which by Length 1971: 226.1 in (5,743 mm)
now was called the "Delta 88") except the Ninety-Eight had a longer 1972: 227.8 in (5,786 mm)
passenger compartment owing to its 3" longer wheelbase, and had 1973: 230.3 in (5,850 mm)
rear Cadillac-esque tailfins to better differentiate between the two full- 1974–75: 232.4 in
size models. (5,903 mm)
1976: 232.2 in (5,898 mm)
The standard 455 cubic-inch Rocket V8 was rated at 320 hp (239 kW)
Width 1971: 79.0 in (2,007 mm)
and designed to run on lower octane regular lead, low-lead or
1972–73: 79.6 in
unleaded gasoline for the first time this year thanks to a General
(2,022 mm)
Motors-mandate that all engines be designed to run on such fuels in
1974–75: 79.8 in
preparation for the catalytic converter equipped cars of 1975 and later
(2,027 mm)
years that absolutely required unleaded gasoline. Despite this, a few
1976: 80.0 in (2,032 mm)
1975 and 1976 Ninety Eights were released from this catalytic
converter requirement in Canada and were given certification along Height 1971–72: 54.6 in
with exemption from requiring unleaded gasoline. V8s were (1,387 mm)
progressively detuned as production wore on in line with tighter 1973: 54.7 in (1,389 mm)
emission standards. Trunk mounted louvers for the flow through 1974–75: 54.2 in
ventilation system were only found on 1971 models (as in many other (1,377 mm)
GM models of 1971). The louvers were moved to the doorjambs for 1976: 54.7 in (1,389 mm)
1972-1976 models. From 1971 to 1976, Oldsmobile's full-sized Custom Curb weight 4,700–5,200 lb (2,100–
Cruiser station wagon shared the 127.0-inch (3,230 mm) wheelbase 2,400 kg)
and 455 cubic-inch V8 with the Oldsmobile 98, and shared its interior
and exterior styling, in particular the 98's distinctive front fascia and rear quarter panels complete with fender skirts.
The number of body styles was reduced to four for 1971. The convertible was gone as were the 4-door sedan body styles. A
new body style was the Luxury Coupe. For the first time ever all Oldsmobile 98s were now hardtops, and for the first time
since 1964 not all hardtops were called Holidays. Standard equipment included armrests, front and rear, power brakes
with front discs, electric clock, carpeting, inside hood release, lamp package, power seat, power steering and Turbo-
Hydramatic transmission. Standard tire size was J78-15. Interiors were vinyl, cloth and leather. Ninety-Eights were built
in both Linden and Lansing.
Four body styles were offered in the 98 series for 1972. Standard equipment included: Deluxe armrests, dual ashtrays,
power brakes with front discs, electric clock, carpeting, interior hood release, remote control outside mirror, molding
package, interior light package, windshield radio antenna, power seat, power steering, spare tire cover and Turbo-
Hydramatic transmission. A midyear version of the 4-door hardtop named the Regency was produced to commemorate
Oldsmobile's 75th year as an automaker. For the first time in 17 years the 98 set a new sales record of 121,568.
In 1973 a five body style 98 series was at the top end of the Oldsmobile line. The 75th anniversary Regency 4-door hardtop
continued, following its successful mid-1972 introduction. Standard equipment included: Deluxe armrests, dual ashtrays,
power brakes with front discs, cigarette lighter, carpeting, inside hood release, dome light, molding package, windshield
radio antenna, foam sheet cushions, power steering, Deluxe steering wheel, Turbo-Hydramatic transmission and wheel
opening covers. Standard tire size was L78-15. Upholstery was vinyl or cloth. The Oldsmobile 98 set another record of
138,462 sold.
The 1974 Ninety-Eight was now Oldsmobile's longest running series dating back to 1941, and was still popular. Five
models were offered with the Regency Coupe taking the place of the Luxury Coupe. Standard equipment included: power
brakes with front discs, cigarette lighter, electric clock, interior hood release, lamp package, molding package, remote
control outside mirror, windshield radio antenna, power steering, Deluxe steering wheel, spare tire cover, power windows,
power seat and Turbo-Hydramatic transmission. Standard tire size was J78-15. Upholstery was vinyl, cloth or leather.
From 1974 to 1975 the 98 reached a record length of 232.4 in (5903 mm), when federally mandated 5 mph (8.0 km/h)
bumpers were added both front and rear increasing the overall length of the cars by several inches, while 1976 model year
saw minimal length reduction to 232.2 in (5898 mm). It is also worth to note that 1974 Oldsmobile 98 4-door hardtop was
the longest car with that body style sold that year, since the longer Lincoln Continental, Cadillac Sixty Special and Cadillac
Series 75 were basically sedans (and 1974 Lincoln Continental came only with one hardtop body style: the 2-door). The
1974-76 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight (as well as all full-size Oldsmobiles, Buicks and Cadillacs) also were among the first US
production cars to offer an air bag option ("Air Cushion Restraint System") beginning in 1974. Very few cars were so
equipped. The high cost ($700) plus public uncertainty about the yet-to-be proven safety systems that are now universal
in today's automobiles saw quite handily to that.
The number of 98 body styles was reduced in 1975. Four were available consisting of coupes or 4-door hardtops in Luxury
or Regency trim. Two door models were no longer hardtops. Standard equipment included: power brakes with front discs,
cigarette lighter, electric clock, electronic ignition, hood release, bumper impact strips, lamp package, 455 CID engine,
molding package, remote-controlled outside mirror, power seat, power windows, power steering, Deluxe steering wheel,
chrome wheel discs and Turbo-Hydramatic transmission. Standard tire size was J78-15. Upholstery was vinyl, cloth or
leather.
In 1976 the Luxury and Regency editions of the full-size 98s were offered, in 2-door coupes or 4-door hardtops. 4-doors
had an extra window (like an opera window) in the C-pillar. A landau roof option for the coupe gave it a huge-looking
opera window. Like the Custom Cruiser, 98s had a dual section eggcrate-design grille, with new front end panel, front
bumper, and wraparound horizontal parking lamps. Amber marker lenses aligned with the headlamps wrapped around
the fender sides. Separate clear cornering lamps had horizontal ribs. Vertical tailamps were decorated with a small
emblem in each lens. Tiny back-up lamps stood alongside the license plate, on a panel that also contained small red lenses
next to the tailamps. Standard 98 equipment included a 455 CID Rocket V8 with 4-barrel carburetor, Turbo-Hydramatic,
vari-ratio power steering, power brakes, power driver's seat, driver's door armrest control console, electronic message
center, electric clock, fold-down center armrests, front ashtray, and JR78 x 15 blackwall steel-belted radials. Rear fender
skirts and bumper impact strips were also standard. A new 2.41:1 axle ratio became standard to improve fuel economy.
Ninety-Eight Regency
For the 1972 model year, the
Limited Edition Regency was
offered to commemorate
Oldsmobile's 75th anniversary.
Each 1972 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight
Regency was registered at Tiffany's
and included the specially styled 1976 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight
interior with black or covert gold Regency sedan
1976 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight "pillow effect" velour upholstery,
Regency coupe and power split bench seat, in place
of the power bench seat with a rear clock. Tiffany touches include the Tiffany
Gold paint (an exclusive custom metallic color created especially for this car),
the clock has also been specially styled by Tiffany's and bears a white Oldsmobile emblem above Tiffany's name on a
golden face. Each 1972 Regency owner received a distinctive sterling silver key ring as a gift. If they were lost, the keys
could be dropped in a mailbox, and Tiffany's would return them to the owner. A total of 2,650 75th anniversary Ninety-
Eight Regency cars were built, all of them four-door hardtops. In 1973 the non-anniversary Regency stayed in the line up
slotted just above the LS. The Regency package would remain available on the Ninety Eight through the 1996 model year
when it would become a separate model nameplate.
Tenth generation (1977–1984)

Tenth generation
Rear view of 1977 Oldsmobile

Ninety-Eight Regency coupe
Overview
The 1977 model was extensively redone and downsized, like the Delta Model years 1977–1984
88. The new models, at around 4000 pounds curb weight, were over Assembly Lansing, Michigan, U.S.
800 pounds lighter, but headroom and rear seat legroom were Linden, New Jersey, U.S.
increased compared to equivalent 1976 models. The 455 CID engine
was replaced by the smaller 403 CID V8. The Oldsmobile 350 V8 was
now the standard engine. The Ninety-Eight set a new sales record of Body and chassis
139,423. A four-door sedan and a two-door hardtop coupe were Body style 2-door coupe
available. 4-door sedan
Layout FR layout
Size comparison between 1974 and 1977 Oldsmobile Ninety-
Eight Platform GM C platform
Related Cadillac Fleetwood
Brougham
Cadillac De Ville
Buick Electra
Powertrain
Engine 252 in³ (4.1 L) Buick V6
307 in³ (5.0 L) Oldsmobile
V8
V8
diesel V8
V8
Transmission 3-speed TH350 automatic
3-speed TH400 automatic
4-speed THM 200-4R
automatic
Dimensions
1974 Oldsmobile 1977 Oldsmobile Wheelbase 119.0 in (3,023 mm)

Ninety-Eight sedan Ninety-Eight sedan
Length 221.4 in (5,624 mm)
Wheelbase 127.0 in (3,226 mm) 119.0 in (3,023 mm) Width 76.3 in (1,938 mm)
Overall Height 55.3 in (1,405 mm)
232.4 in (5,903 mm) 220.4 in (5,598 mm)
length
Width 79.8 in (2,027 mm) 76.8 in (1,951 mm)
Height 54.2 in (1,377 mm) 56.6 in (1,438 mm)
Front
39.3 in (998 mm) 39.3 in (998 mm)
headroom
Front
42.2 in (1,072 mm) 42.2 in (1,072 mm)
legroom
Front hip
62.3 in (1,582 mm) 55.0 in (1,397 mm)
room
Front
shoulder 64.3 in (1,633 mm) 60.6 in (1,539 mm)
room
Rear
38.2 in (970 mm) 38.0 in (965 mm)
headroom
Rear
legroom– 40.8 in (1,036 mm) 40.9 in (1,039 mm)
ins.
Rear hip
62.8 in (1,595 mm) 55.7 in (1,415 mm)
room
Rear
room
Luggage
22.3 cu ft (631 L) 20.3 cu ft (575 L)
capacity
A diesel version of the 350 was added in 1978. Beginning in 1979, production of
the Ninety-Eight was exclusive to Lansing as Linden Assembly was retooled to
build the E-body cars. Base LS models were available as sedans only, and the
premium Regency model came as either a coupe or a sedan. A limited
production top level Regency LX sedan was also offered for 1979.
The Ninety-Eight was restyled for 1980, along with the Delta 88. That year, it
gained a new 307 cid (5.0 L) V8 as an option. The 403 was dropped
completely. The 1980 models received new exterior sheet metal, without
1979 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight
sedan drastically changing the look of the car. To improve aerodynamics and fuel
economy the hood was sloped downward, while the trunk area was higher. This
also gave all models a heavier, more substantial appearance, while even slightly
increasing interior and trunk space. 1981 saw the introduction of Buick's 252 in³ V6 as standard, as well as a new 4-speed
THM200-4R automatic transmission. The gas 350 engine was dropped that same year, completely replaced by the smaller
307. The new Regency Brougham model was introduced for 1982. This car featured plush "Prima" velour seats with
embroidered emblems, cut pile carpeting, and electroluminescent opera lamps on the B-pillars. Regency became the new
'base' model as the LS was discontinued. A redesigned steering wheel and slightly revised instrument panel were also new
that year. The 1983 models received a new grille, but were otherwise
unchanged. The federal 5 mph (8.0 km/h) impact standard was rolled back for
1984, prompting GM to make major changes to the bumpers to save weight;
predictably, this drastically reduced their effectiveness. An optional 8-track
tape player and the 4.1 L V6 were no longer available, though the CB radio was
still optional.[20]
Production ended in March 1984. These cars were actually sold concurrently
Regency coupe
with the new front-wheel drive 1985 model.[21] The body style reference in GM
Manufacturing became "D" for the carryover RWD models, and the new FWD
cars became C-bodies (which had been the designation used hitherto for the RWD cars).
Eleventh generation (1985–1990)

1985 saw the Ninety-Eight downsized for a second time, this time
switching from rear-wheel drive to a new front-wheel drive platform,
Eleventh generation
with sales beginning in April 1984.[21] Although this Ninety-Eight was
nearly 25.0 in (635 mm) shorter in length and weighed over 700 lb
(318 kg) less than its predecessor,[22] passenger space was nearly
equal to 1984 models. Buyers seemed to prefer this new, more
manageable Ninety-Eight, as 1985 model year sales, at 169,432 units,
were more than double 1984's 76,833 units, an all-time sales
record.[23]
Overview
Size comparison between 1984 and 1985 Oldsmobile Ninety- Model years 1985–1990
Eight [22]
Assembly Lake Orion, Michigan, U.S.
Wentzville, Missouri, U.S.
Designer Irv Rybicki
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door coupe
4-door sedan
Layout Transverse front-engine,
front-wheel drive
Related Buick Electra
Cadillac De Ville
Cadillac Fleetwood
Cadillac Sixty Special
Powertrain
Engine 3.0 L Buick V6
3.8 L Buick V6
4.3 L Oldsmobile Diesel V6
Transmission 4-speed automatic
Dimensions
1984 Oldsmobile 1985 Oldsmobile Wheelbase 110.8 in (2,814 mm)

Ninety-Eight Ninety-Eight Length 1985–86: 196.1 in
Regency sedan Regency sedan
(4,981 mm)
Wheelbase 119.0 in (3,023 mm) 110.8 in (2,814 mm) 1987–88: 196.4 in
Overall (4,989 mm)
221.1 in (5,616 mm) 196.1 in (4,981 mm)
length 1989–1990: 196.3 in
Width 76.3 in (1,938 mm) 72.1 in (1,831 mm) (4,986 mm)
Height 58.0 in (1,473 mm) 55.0 in (1,397 mm) Width 1985–86: 72.1 in
(1,831 mm)
Curb
4,024 lb (1,825 kg) 3,292 lb (1,493 kg) 1987–88: 72.4 in
weight
(1,839 mm)
Front
39.5 in (1,003 mm) 39.3 in (998 mm) 1989–1990: 72.6 in
headroom
(1,844 mm)
Front
42.2 in (1,072 mm) 42.4 in (1,077 mm) Height 1985–86: 55.0 in
legroom
Front (1,397 mm)
shoulder 59.6 in (1,514 mm) 58.9 in (1,496 mm) 1987–88: 55.1 in
room (1,400 mm)
Rear 1989–1990: 54.8 in
38.1 in (968 mm) 38.1 in (968 mm)
headroom (1,392 mm)
Rear
41.7 in (1,059 mm) 40.8 in (1,036 mm)
legroom
Rear
room
Luggage
20.5 cu ft (580 L) 16.2 cu ft (459 L)
capacity
As in previous years, the 1985 Ninety-Eight was available as a 4-door sedan and a 2-door coupe, in either Regency or
Regency Brougham trim. Both models came with standard velour seating, with Sierra grain leather optional on
both.[24] For the first year, the Buick 181 in³ V6 was the standard powerplant. V8 engines were gone for good, never to
return to the Ninety-Eight. Optional engines were Buick's 231 and Oldsmobile's 263 in³ Diesel V6. The 3.0 gas V6 and 4.3
Diesel V6 were dropped for 1986.
Oldsmobile consistently improved this generation Ninety-Eight over its six-

year run, treating it to yearly updates. Anti-lock brakes were a new option for
1986 and a special "Grande" package was offered in 1986 and 1987 featuring
composite headlights and specific front end panel (1986 only), and 45/45
leather seats with pigskin inserts and console with combination lock. For 1987,
all Ninety-Eights received a new grille with flush composite headlamps. It
Regency sedan
would also be the last year for the slow-selling 2-door coupe body style.
In 1988, a power pull-down trunklid and an on-board computer with oil life
monitor (known as the "Driver Information System") were added to the options list. For the 1989 model year, the Ninety-
Eight saw another grille change and the addition of Twilight Sentinel headlights, optional remote keyless entry, an
automatic dimming rearview mirror which could be turned on and off, and an optional (but rarely ordered) driver's-side
airbag.
By 1990, the eleventh-generation

Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight was
peaking in terms of mechanic
perfection. It had a new harmonic
balancer and increased horsepower
from the somewhat sluggish 1985
Regency Brougham coupe models. Also in 1990, a PGA edition
package was offered on the Regency
Regency sedan
Brougham which included gold
PGA emblems, gold nameplate badging, gold striping, and wire wheels with
gold Oldsmobile rocket emblems.

Regency Brougham sedan
Engines:
Year Engine Power Torque

1985 3.0 L Buick V6 110 hp (82 kW) at 4800 rpm 145 lb⋅ft (197 N⋅m) at 2600 rpm
1985 3.8 L Buick MPFI V6 125 hp (93 kW) at 4400 rpm 195 lb⋅ft (264 N⋅m) at 2000 rpm
1985 4.3 L Oldsmobile Diesel V6 85 hp (63 kW) 165 lb⋅ft (224 N⋅m)
1986 140 hp (104 kW) at 4400 rpm 200 lb⋅ft (270 N⋅m) at 2000 rpm
1987 3.8 L Buick SFI V6 150 hp (112 kW) at 4400 rpm 200 lb⋅ft (270 N⋅m) at 2000 rpm
1988 160 hp (119 kW) at 5200 rpm

1990 3.8 L Buick LN3 V6 165 hp (123 kW) at 5200 rpm 210 lb⋅ft (285 N⋅m) at 2000 rpm
Touring Sedan
A new performance-oriented Touring Sedan model was introduced in
1987.[25] The Touring Sedan was based on the Ninety-Eight Regency and
featured a long list of standard equipment including leather seats designed by
Lear Siegler, anti-lock brakes, an on-board computer (1988–1990), FE3 sport
suspension, self-closing trunk (1988–1990), burl walnut interior, console
shifter, 15-inch (1987 only) or 16-inch (1988–1990) alloy wheels, and more.
1989 Oldsmobile Touring Sedan
Twelfth generation (1991–1996)

The final generation of the Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight coincided with its
50th anniversary in 1991. The added length, rear fender skirts, wide
Twelfth generation
tail, low nose, and split-grille with wraparound headlights gave this
generation Ninety-Eight a more distinctive appearance than its
predecessor.
Although wheelbase was unchanged from the previous generation,

overall length increased by over 9 inches (229 mm).[26] Most of this
extra space was added to the rear of the car, resulting in a larger
trunk. Overview
The final generation Ninety-Eight was available in two main trim

levels: the traditional luxury-oriented Regency models and the Assembly United States: Lake Orion,
performance-oriented Touring models. Engine choices included Michigan (Orion Assembly)
normally aspirated (all years) and supercharged (1992-1995) versions Designer Chuck Jordan
of the 3.8 L V6.
Body and chassis
Body style 4-door sedan
Layout Transverse front-engine,
front-wheel drive
Related Buick Park Avenue
1991-1993 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight Cadillac De Ville
Cadillac Fleetwood
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Ninety-Eight, Cadillac Sixty Special
Oldsmobile offered a "50th Anniversary" package in 1991. This limited
Powertrain
edition model was available only in black or white and featured
cloisonné front fender anniversary emblems, gold nameplate badging, Engine 3.8 L L27 V6 (gasoline)
gold striping, and unique gold accent alloy wheels. The interior was 3.8 L L36 V6 (gasoline)
trimmed in burl walnut with gold accents. 3.8 L L67 (Series I) V6
(supercharged gasoline)
In 1992, a new supercharged V6 engine became available on the
Touring edition. Also that year, a new entry Regency trim model was Transmission 4-speed 4T60-E automatic
added. On upper level Regency Elite models, a PGA edition package 4-speed 4T60-E HD
was offered which included gold PGA emblems, gold nameplate automatic
badging, gold striping, and unique gold accent alloy wheels.
Dimensions
In 1993, a new value priced Special Edition model was added to the Wheelbase 110.8 in (2,814 mm)
lineup and Ninety-Eight received an improved 3.8 L V6 engine
Length 205.7 in (5,225 mm)
offering better performance and fuel efficiency.
1991–93 Touring: 205.8 in
In 1994, the Touring edition was discontinued but many of the (5,227 mm)
features of that model became standard or available on Regency Elite Width 74.6 in (1,895 mm)
including the supercharged engine. Additionally, the Ninety-Eight Height 54.8 in (1,392 mm)
added standard front passenger-side airbag plus new instrument panel,

steering wheel, and door panel designs. The exterior received a new cross-
hatch grille as well as redesigned head- and side-marker lamps.
In 1995, Oldsmobile further simplified the Ninety-Eight lineup by offering just

two levels of Regency Elite (Series I and Series II). Each was offered with a
1994-1996 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight high level of standard equipment and only a short list of extra cost options.
Also that year, the standard 3.8 L V6 engine was again reengineered to
improve performance and fuel efficiency.
Changes were minimal to the Ninety-Eight for 1996, its final year. The most notable was the removal of the supercharged
engine from the option list. That engine, however, remained available on Oldsmobile's performance LSS model.
Engines:
1991–1996 3.8 L (231 in³) V6

1992–1995 3.8 L (231 in³) supercharged V6
Trim levels:
Touring - 1991–1993
Regency Elite - 1991–1994
Regency - 1992–1994
Regency Special Edition - 1993–1994
Regency Elite Series I - 1995–1996
Regency Elite Series II - 1995–1996
Discontinuation
The Ninety-Eight was discontinued in 1996, ending production on May 31, 1996.[27] To fill the void, a new Eighty-Eight
relative – the Regency – was introduced, joining the sportier LSS model introduced a year earlier. The LSS featured steel
front fenders, while the more stately and traditional Regency had the carryover GTX-composite fenders from the 1996
Ninety-Eight. The LSS model proved more popular to buyers than the Regency during the 1997-1998 model years.
References
1. "Directory Index: Oldsmobile/1941_Oldsmobile/1941_Oldsmobile_Prestige_Brochure" (http://www.oldcarbrochures.co
m/static/NA/Oldsmobile/1941_Oldsmobile/1941_Oldsmobile_Prestige_Brochure/1941%20Oldsmobile%20Prestige-30
-31.html). Oldcarbrochures.com. Retrieved 2011-12-31.
2. Flory, Jr., J. "Kelly" (2008). American Cars, 1946-1959 Every Model Every Year. McFarland & Company, Inc.,
Publishers. ISBN 978-0-7864-3229-5.
3. "Directory Index: Oldsmobile/1953 Oldsmobile/album" (http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Oldsmobile/1953%
20Oldsmobile/album/1953%20Oldsmobile-24.html). Oldcarbrochures.com. Retrieved 2011-11-09.
5. "Directory Index: Oldsmobile/1955 Oldsmobile/1955_Oldsmobile_Brochure" (http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/N
A/Oldsmobile/1955%20Oldsmobile/1955_Oldsmobile_Brochure/1955%20Oldsmobile-30-31.html).
Oldcarbrochures.com. Retrieved 2011-12-31.
6. "Directory Index: Oldsmobile/1955 Oldsmobile/1955_Oldsmobile_Brochure" (http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/N

A/Oldsmobile/1955%20Oldsmobile/1955_Oldsmobile_Brochure/1955%20Oldsmobile-32.html). Oldcarbrochures.com.
Retrieved 2011-12-31.
7. http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Oldsmobile/1955%20Oldsmobile/album_001/1955%20Oldsmobile%20Manua
09.html
11. Flory, J. "Kelly", Jr. American Cars 1960-1972 (Jefferson, NC: McFarland & Coy, 2004), p.118.
13. "Directory Index: Oldsmobile/1958_Oldsmobile/1958_Oldsmobile_Brochure" (http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/
NA/Oldsmobile/1958_Oldsmobile/1958_Oldsmobile_Brochure/1958%20Oldsmobile-24-25.html).
14. "Directory Index: Oldsmobile/1958_Oldsmobile/1958_Oldsmobile_Brochure" (http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/
NA/Oldsmobile/1958_Oldsmobile/1958_Oldsmobile_Brochure/1958%20Oldsmobile-28-29.html).
20Oldsmobile/album/1959%20Oldsmobile-30-31.html). Oldcarbrochures.com. Retrieved 2011-12-31.
16. "Directory Index: Cadillac/1959_Cadillac/1959_Cadillac_Brochure" (http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Cadilla
c/1959_Cadillac/1959_Cadillac_Brochure/1959%20Cadillac-15.html). Oldcarbrochures.com. Retrieved 2011-12-31.
20Oldsmobile/album/1959%20Oldsmobile-26-27.html). Oldcarbrochures.com. Retrieved 2011-12-31.
18. "Directory Index: Oldsmobile/1960 Oldsmobile/1960 Oldsmobile Brochure" (http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/N
A/Oldsmobile/1960%20Oldsmobile/1960%20Oldsmobile%20Brochure/1960%20Oldsmobile-26-27.html).
19. "Directory Index: Oldsmobile/1970 Oldsmobile/1970_Oldsmobile_Prestige_Brochure" (http://www.oldcarbrochures.co
m/static/NA/Oldsmobile/1970%20Oldsmobile/1970_Oldsmobile_Prestige_Brochure/1970%20Oldsmobile%20Prestige
-48.html). Oldcarbrochures.com. Retrieved 2011-12-31.
20. http://oldcarbrochures.org/New-Brochures---September/1984-Oldsmobile-98-Regency-Brochure-Cdn/1984-
Oldsmobile-Ninety-Eight-Regency-Cdn--04-05
21. Stark, Harry A (February 1984). "C-car conundrum: selling two different cars with one name" (http://www.findarticles.c
om/p/articles/mi_m3165/is_v20/ai_3121734). Ward's Auto World. Retrieved 2007-04-01.
22. Oldsmobile Sales Material "1985 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight Regency Marketing Guide", authorized by General Motors
Corporation
23. Encyclopedia of American Cars "Oldsmobile" p.663: "Oldsmobile Production Figures."
24. Oldsmobile Sales Material "1985 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight Sales Brochure", authorized by General Motors
Corporation
25. Oldsmobile Sales Material "1987 Oldsmobile Line Sales Brochure, Vol. I", authorized by General Motors Corporation
26. "How Oldsmobile Cars Work: 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 Oldsmobile Cars" by the Auto Editors of Consumer
Guide (http://auto.howstuffworks.com/oldsmobile-cars16.htm), retrieved on 2010–05–17.
27. Ward's Automotive Yearbook 1997. Ward's Communications, Inc. 1997.
External links
The 1980s Olds 98 Page (http://www.americanluxurycar.com/Olds98/index.html)
Oldsmobile Ads from the Forties to the Sixties (http://www.oldsads.org)

The Oldsmobile Connection - The Site For Oldsmobile Enthusiasts (http://www.oldsconnection.com)
Cotner-Bevington built professional cars using the Ninety-Eight chassis (http://www.coachbuilt.com/bui/c/cotner_bevin
gton/cotner_bevington.htm)
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Oldsmobile_98&oldid=809028962"
This page was last edited on 6 November 2017, at 18:31.
Text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License; additional terms may apply. By using this
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First generation (1941)

a six-cylinder engine, was available. Hydramatic automatic 4-speed Hydramatic

Second generation (1942–1947)

Third generation (1948–1953)

1952 Oldsmobile 98 convertible

1953 Oldsmobile 98 convertible Assembly South Gate, California, U.S.

Fourth generation (1954–1956)

simulated carpets front Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.

Fifth generation (1957–1958)

1957 Oldsmobile Starfire 98 Holiday

Starfire 98.[10] Standard Engine 371 cu in (6.1 L) Rocket V8

Sixth generation (1959–1960)

1959 Oldsmobile 98 Holiday 4-door

1959 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight Holiday

parking brake light, Framingham,

Seventh generation (1961–1964)

not all Oldsmobile

Eighth generation (1965–1970)

The 1965 98 was completely redesigned from the ground up along

body used in the Model years 1965–1970

In 1968 Oldsmobile continued to produce five well appointed 98 body styles.

Ninth generation (1971–1976)

1971 Oldsmobile 98 4-door hardtop

Tenth generation (1977–1984)

Rear view of 1977 Oldsmobile

1974 Oldsmobile 1977 Oldsmobile Wheelbase 119.0 in (3,023 mm)

Eleventh generation (1985–1990)

1984 Oldsmobile 1985 Oldsmobile Wheelbase 110.8 in (2,814 mm)

Oldsmobile consistently improved this generation Ninety-Eight over its six-

By 1990, the eleventh-generation

1989 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight

Year Engine Power Torque

1988 160 hp (119 kW) at 5200 rpm

1989 Oldsmobile Touring Sedan

Twelfth generation (1991–1996)

Although wheelbase was unchanged from the previous generation,

The final generation Ninety-Eight was available in two main trim

added standard front passenger-side airbag plus new instrument panel,

In 1995, Oldsmobile further simplified the Ninety-Eight lineup by offering just

1991–1996 3.8 L (231 in³) V6

6. "Directory Index: Oldsmobile/1955 Oldsmobile/1955_Oldsmobile_Brochure" (http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/N

Oldsmobile Ads from the Forties to the Sixties (http://www.oldsads.org)

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Oldsmobile_98&oldid=809028962"

This page was last edited on 6 November 2017, at 18:31.

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