1931 Oldsmobile Model F31 Convertible Roadster

The handsome 1931 Oldsmobile F-31 models sported a new tapered radiator shape that would be echoed on several 1932 GM car lines, including Chevrolet and even Cadillac. Also new to Oldsmobile for 1931 was synchromesh, which made it possible for the driver to shift gears without clashing them. A 197 cid L-head six-cylinder engine, rated at 62 horsepower, powered the F-31 models.

Oldsmobile's only convertible style for 1931 was the 2-door Convertible Roadster. It was a true convertible, in that it had roll-up side windows. The style was offered in standard and Deluxe models - both coming with a 'golf bag door' on the right-rear quarter. The Deluxe package added the dual side-mount spare tires and folding rear trunk rack seen on this example. The original list price for the Deluxe Convertible Roadster, with six wire wheels, was $1,000.

Riley Palmer was a youngster delivering newspapers on his bicycle when he first came across this rare F-31 Deluxe Convertible Roadster in 1963. It was stored in a building in his South Carolina hometown. He inquired about buying it then, but was turned down. Later, as an adult with a career in the auto industry, Rile would stop in during annual visits to check on the car, which continued to languish in storage. Whenever he asked if it could be bought, the answer was, 'No.' Finally, in 1996, after 33 years of persistence, the former owner accepted an offer and the Oldsmobile was Riley's at last! A three-year professional restoration was completed in 2007.