One-Family-Owned 1950 Oldsmobile 88 Sedan

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Raleigh Classic Car Auctions have built a pristine reputation over 26 years of live auctions, as the go-to for the best-of-the-best offerings for car collectors and enthusiasts. Regionally trusted and nationally recognized, Raleigh Classic Car Auctions continues to find low-mile, original examples with documentation annually. The September Special is an offering of 38 premium quality, low-mile and desirable, domestic lots from three private estates offered entirely without reserve. All vehicles are available for in-person inspection at The Raleigh Classic Showroom in Zebulon, NC; 9:00am-4:00pm Monday-Friday: 9/15/25-10/3/25 or by appointment.

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Mid-year in 1949, Oldsmobile introduced the Rocket V8, replacing the straight-eight engine 78. “Make a Date with a Rocket 88” kicked off a successful 1950 advertising campaign, complimented by the song Rocket 88 by Ike Turner and his Kings of Rhythm. The 88 outsold the six-cylinder 76 for the first time in 1950, as it cemented itself as Oldsmobile’s best seller. A three-speed manual transmission was offered as an option for the 1950 line as well. Complimenting the enthusiast preferred manual transmission is the racing pedigree, as Hershel McGriff and Ray Elliot combined to win the first edition of the Carrera Panamericana in a 1950 Oldsmobile 88.

This 1950 Oldsmobile 88 is one of those desirable manual-optioned examples, showing just 26,062 miles, which is supported by being owned within the same family from new and service stickers on the driver’s door jam. It is believed to retain its original 303ci Rocket V8 engine and three-speed manual transmission. The vehicle's history is well-documented, with its original purchase from Thackston Motor Company in Huntington, WV, providing a clear lineage. This documentation adds to the car's authenticity and value. The Oldsmobile 88 retains its factory-correct black exterior and striped gray interior upholstery.

Highlights

• Offered from The Raleigh Classic Collection

• 26,062 indicated miles, supported by single-family ownership with documented history and service stickers on driver’s door jam

• Powered by a factory 303ci Rocket V8 engine and three-speed manual transmission

Features

• Original “Cadillac Oldsmobile” set of keys

• White wall tires

• Electric clock in dash

• Various gauges wrapped around speedometer

• Push-button starter to engage starter, ignition key must be engaged to start engine

• Oil bath air cleaner

Known Imperfections

• Pitting on chrome trim and bumpers

• Scratches on driver’s side door, above driver’s side door handle, and on driver’s side rear fender

• Missing spare tire

Included

• Various ownership documents and service stickers

Ownership History

This car is from one of three private estates, comprising the September Special of the Raleigh Classic Car Collection. It has reportedly been kept within the same family from new.