In 1971, Oldsmobile built and sold nearly 560,000 vehicles, making them the sixth largest producer of automobiles in America. A variety of models were built ranging from the lowest price F-85series to the most expensive model, the Toronado. In the middle of the pack was the Delta 88 Series, which was Oldsmobile full-size model. The Delta 88 was offered as a standard model as well as a Delta 88 Custom and a Delta 88 Royale. The Delta 88 Royale was the top of the line for the 88 series and was only offered as a two-door hardtop and a convertible. The Delta 88 Royale convertible was the largest and most expensive convertible offered by Oldsmobile in 1971.

This Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible is one of only 2,883 built during the 1971 model year and carried abase price of 4,325.00. Standard equipment included power front disc brakes, an electric clock, carpeting, and power steering. This particular example is loaded with numerous, desirable factory options and accessories including power windows, power door locks, power front seat, air conditioning, tinted glass, two speed wipers with windshield washers, AM/FM factory radio with a rear speaker, dual side view mirrors, dual exhaust, cruise control, a power trunk release, rear window defogger, and Nite-Watch.

We are offering this vehicle from an estate of a well known, local collector of 1960sand 1970s GM vehicles. He purchased this vehicle many years ago due to its rarity. He was particularly attracted to its long list of factory accessories as well as its desirable, triple-black color combination. He also knew that this was a solid and well-preserved car that was certainly worthy of a cosmetic restoration. Unfortunately, he was never able to begin this project. Today, this1971 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale convertible remains in the same condition as when it was purchased. It is an extremely solid and complete car that is in need of a cosmetic restoration. The black paint is well worn and lifting in several areas. The black interior shows overall signs of wear and the black convertible top covering has a few rips, tears and patches. The chrome and stainless trim items are in similar, original condition but are intact and certainly restorable. The body appears to be very solid. There are the expected amount of small dings, dents and scrapes, but no evidence of any serious body damage. The floors appear to be in good condition, as does the trunk pan. The quarter panels, doorsills, etc. are good and solid. Even though the cosmetics are well worn, this car appears to have lived a good life. Under the hood, the correct 455 cubic inch/330 horsepower V-8 engine starts easily, runs well and appears to be in solid, mechanical condition. The Turbo 400 automatic transmission shifts smoothly. This car appears to drive well and the air conditioner appears to operate properly. The mileage indicated is approximately 45,360. Delta 88Royale Convertibles are rarely offered for sale.

This example, with its triple black color combination as well as its long list of features could become a welcomed addition to any collector of early1970s convertibles. A cosmetic restoration on this solid example would be a relatively straight-forward and financially rewarding project that would result in an impressive car when completed. This is a great opportunity to own a desirable Oldsmobile at a very reasonable price.