1916 Oldsmobile Model 44 Roadster

Oldsmobile's first V8 engine used in a production vehicle could be found in the 1916 Model 44. It was a 'light-eight' 'L-head' unit that displaced 246 cubic-inches. A Ball and Ball carburetor is used with a vacuum gasoline feed. The distributor is mounted at the front of the engine and drives from a shaft on the generator. The shaft is chain-powered by the crankshaft. Valvle layout is L-head.

The cars were lavishly equipped with hickory wheels, a walnut steering wheel, German silver radiator, and French leather seats. The cost to own a Model 44 in 1916 ranged from $1,195 to $1,850. A total of 8,000 cars were purchased that year and easily outsold the four-cylinder Model 43. But when the Model 37 was introduced in 1918, with its six-cylinder engine, it was displaced as the sales leader. Production of the V8 engine continued until 1923.

This car was part of the William Harrah's collection for 40 years. It was sold in 1983 to an Olds dealer located in central California. While in their care, it was treated to a professional, frame-off restoration that took five years to complete. It is painted in medium maroon and has matching brown leather upholstery and a tan canvas top.

This car has an older restoration that still shows well today. It was offered for sale at the 2007 Bonhams Important Sale of Collectors' Motorcars and Automobilia at the Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club where it was sold for $30,000 plus premium and tax.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2008