1953 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight Convertible

The 1953 Oldsmobile Fiesta was a top-of-the-line vehicle that was introduced in that year's Motorama show. It was not the only convertible Oldsmobile offered that year, as others could be found in the 88, Super and 98 Series. The 98 Convertible was the most popular, with 7,521 built.

This example was built near the end of the 1953 model year and thus, is fitted with a Buick Dynaflow transmission. On August 12th of 1953, a fire raged through the Hydra-Matic factory at Livonia, Michigan, halting all operations for more than two months. In response, General Motors retooled Cadillacs and Oldsmobiles for Dynaflow transmissions and Pontiacs for Powerglides.

The engine in this car is also unusual, as it has an additional aluminum manifold and dual four-barrel carburetors.

The current owner purchased the car in 1990 and was given a body-off restoration in 1992. It earned First Place in Oldsmobile Club of America judging at Dallas, Texas. It is finished in red with a black canvas top. Options include power steering, Autronic Eye headlight dimmer, padded dashboard, dual exhausts, power windows and seat, wire wheel covers and a Super Deluxe signal-seeking radio.

The upholstery is dark red leather with white insert panels. The carburetors have twin dry-element air cleaners, and like other 1953 Oldsmobiles, it has a 12-volt electrical system.

In 2011, the car was offered for sale at the St John auction presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $50,000 - $70,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car was sold for $41,250, including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2011