1939 Oldsmobile Series 70

Description

This 1939 Oldsmobile Series 70 sedan makes it easy to love the Rocket division and its slick pre-war shape. With reliable small block power, a family-friendly interior, and an awesome fat-fendered look, nobody will blame you for falling in love.

Although the GM intermediates shared bodies, they each had their own unique look, and many will argue that the 1939 Oldsmobiles were the best-looking of the bunch. The front end was quite distinctive with its close-set headlights and horizontal grilles, and body details like the creases running down the center of each front fender makes it look elegant. The color scheme is subtle and suits the big sedan just fine, showing off its more interesting features without being overpowering. Finish quality is good, although it's been driven and enjoyed, so it's not really a show car today. All four doors fit well and the long pointed hood snugs up tightly to the cowl, so no unsightly gaps there, more indications of careful workmanship. The original chrome and trim remains largely intact, including the strips of brightwork running from nose to tail as well as the original taillights and bumpers. There's a flush-mounted CHMSL for safety, particularly since the original taillights are so small, but the remainder of the bodywork is just how the General built it.

For a lot of folks, a 4-door hot rod makes a lot of sense, and this full-sized sedan is a fantastic road trip machine. The original seats were reupholstered in durable, handsome gray tweed which retains the vintage look without being excessively customized. Simple door panels with original moldings and hardware help keep the link to the past alive and the woodgraining on the top of the dashboard is rather nicely done. A custom chrome panel for the white-faced Auto Meter gauges matches the passenger's side glove box lid and gives it a very finished look that's unusual in a rod at this price point, and all the modern conveniences are included: A/C, a tilt steering column, and a Pioneer AM/FM/CD stereo with Sony and Xplod speakers throughout the interior. Add in a handsome Grant GT wooden steering wheel, the trick B&M shifter on the floor, and a power antenna and you have a no-compromises Olds that's ready to rock.

A Chevrolet 350 cubic inch crate motor replaces the Oldsmobile's original straight-8 engine, and it's a neat fit in the pointed engine bay. You can see that the work was thoughtfully done, with nice service access and a clean, well-organized look that suggests a careful builder at work. Check out the custom-made aluminum radiator which had to be expensive, as well as the usual hardware that makes it run right: a Holley carb atop an Edelbrock intake. Custom headers fit tight to the block for good clearance and a rumbling dual exhaust system reminds onlookers that this is no stock Oldsmobile. A TH350 3-speed automatic transmission spins a 10-bolt rear, while the front suspension was replaced by an entire Monte Carlo front clip. Air shocks out back ensure a level ride regardless of the load and the sturdy original frame doesn't seem to mind the extra horsepower flowing through it. Vintage-looking Keystone wheels look great and carry 205/70/14 front and 225/70/15 rear Goodyear radials for a sporty look.

Attractive, practical, and fun to drive, this slick sedan will make you rethink everything you think you know about Oldsmobile. With restoration receipts spelling out this labor of love, it's ready to drive and enjoy any time. Call today!