A 1957 Oldsmobile Starfire 98 Convertible with two decades of single ownership is drawing interest as it heads toward the close of its auction window in Stuart, Florida. The car carries a current high bid of $17,750 with two days remaining, reflecting steady attention with more than 6,700 views and a dozen bids.
The 1957 model year marked a singular moment for Oldsmobile’s Starfire nameplate. That year, the prestigious designation was applied across the entire Ninety-Eight lineup, extending beyond a single halo model to include coupes, sedans, and convertibles. The Starfire 98 represented a shift in styling direction, incorporating sculpted rear quarter panels and three-piece chrome taillights that moved away from the exaggerated tail-fin trends of the era.
Powering this convertible is the optional high-output J-2 version of Oldsmobile’s 371-cubic-inch Rocket V8. Equipped with a tri-power carburetor setup, the engine was rated at 300 horsepower and paired with the Jetaway Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic transmission. The combination was designed to balance smooth operation with strong performance, aligning with the Ninety-Eight’s luxury positioning.
The car has been refinished in its factory Jade Mist Iridescent and Alcan White paint scheme, complemented by a white convertible top. Inside, the cabin features three-tone turquoise, green, and white leather upholstery, along with green Daytona weave carpeting. Factory equipment includes power steering, power brakes, power windows, an optional power seat, original air conditioning, tinted glass, and an Autronic Eye headlight dimming system. Additional features include a Wonder Bar Super Deluxe AM radio, clock, front seat belts, dual side mirrors, and polished stainless steel wheels with chrome covers.
According to decoding information, the convertible was assembled at Oldsmobile’s Lansing, Michigan plant and retains its correct trim and paint codes. Service history notes a refinish in the original color combination and the fitment of BFGoodrich Silvertown whitewall tires.
Known imperfections include localized paint flaws, dimpling on a rear fender, wear on the driver’s seat, and an inoperative clock. Despite those issues, the car earned recognition as an AACA Nationals prize winner in 2005. Included with the sale are a convertible boot cover, spare wheel and tire, jack, lug wrench, and a rubber Oldsmobile trunk mat.
The Starfire 98 remains a distinctive example of Oldsmobile’s late-1950s design and engineering direction, blending luxury, performance, and exclusivity in a single model year offering. See it here.
