1966 Oldsmobile Starfire

The 1966 Oldsmobile Starfire Hardtop Coupe accounted for just over 2-percent of Oldsmobile's total production, with 13,019 sales. Priced at $3,540 it was among the most expensive models in the lineup, positioned below the front-wheel-drive Toronado and the top-of-the-line Ninety-Eight. Power was from an overhead-valve, five main bearing V8 engine with a 425 cubic-inch displacement, hydraulic valve lifters, a Rochester four-barrel carburetor, 10.5:1 compression ratio, and produced 375 horsepower at 4,800 RPM.

Oldsmobile's luxury segment had become cramped, leading to the discontinuation of the Starfire model line after 1966. During its final year, the convertible was no longer offered, leaving just the sporty luxury coupe. Compared to the 1965 model year, the pricing dropped and it moved downmarket with fewer standard equipment, and less plush interior. The leather seats were replaced by Morroceen vinyl for both the Strato bucket seats or the no-cost optional notchback bench seat. Power seats and power windows were no longer standard. The power steering, power brakes, and Turbo Hydra-Matic also moved to the list of optional equipment.

Standard equipment included seat belts, carpeting, windshield washer, and two-speed wipers, electric clock, chrome molding package, outside rearview mirror, courtesy lamps, back-up lamps, and 8.25x14 inch tires.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2020