Oldsmobile 98
As Oldsmobile's flagship for over 50 years, the 98 represented the brand's peak luxury, featuring powerful V8s and the latest technology. It's a stylish classic that shared its upscale C-body platform with contemporary Buick and Cadillac models.
Oldsmobile 98 sold for a median of $20,900 over the last 12 months, based on 37 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $9,500 and $44,500. 113 currently for sale.
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Seen across 7 sites in the last 30 days.
Oldsmobile 98 prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1940 | $30k | $26k–$33k | 5 | 6 |
| 1941 | $24k | – | 3 | 4 |
| 1942 | – | – | 0 | 0 |
| 1947 | $29k | – | 2 | 0 |
| 1948 | $13k | – | 3 | 1 |
| 1949 | $13k | – | 3 | 2 |
| 1950 | $26k | – | 3 | 2 |
| 1951 | $35k | – | 1 | 1 |
| 1952 | $30k | – | 2 | 1 |
| 1953 | $68k | $25k–$131k | 6 | 14 |
| 1954 | $18k | $9.9k–$27k | 4 | 2 |
| 1955 | $42k | $31k–$52k | 6 | 4 |
| 1956 | $34k | $22k–$53k | 9 | 8 |
| 1957 | $49k | $29k–$59k | 10 | 8 |
| 1958 | $65k | – | 2 | 0 |
| 1959 | $32k | – | 2 | 0 |
| 1960 | $48k | – | 3 | 2 |
| 1961 | – | – | 0 | 0 |
| 1962 | $22k | – | 1 | 2 |
| 1963 | $35k | – | 1 | 3 |
| 1964 | $13k | $11k–$17k | 6 | 3 |
| 1965 | $21k | – | 1 | 1 |
| 1966 | $9k | $6.1k–$10k | 5 | 3 |
| 1967 | $21k | – | 3 | 2 |
| 1968 | $15k | – | 1 | 5 |
| 1969 | $10k | $7.9k–$13k | 5 | 2 |
| 1970 | $3.9k | – | 1 | 3 |
| 1971 | – | – | 0 | 3 |
| 1972 | $12k | – | 1 | 4 |
| 1973 | – | – | 0 | 0 |
| 1974 | $20k | – | 2 | 0 |
| 1975 | $14k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1976 | $12k | – | 2 | 9 |
| 1978 | $7.4k | – | 1 | 1 |
| 1979 | $7.2k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1981 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
| 1983 | $11k | $8.8k–$13k | 4 | 5 |
| 1984 | $16k | $11k–$22k | 5 | 2 |
| 1985 | $6.1k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1995 | $13k | – | 2 | 0 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Oldsmobile 98 was the brand's flagship model for over 50 years, representing the peak of its luxury and engineering. Spanning ten generations from 1941 to 1996, the 98 consistently offered the latest features, powerful V8 engines, and styling that often set the tone for the rest of the Oldsmobile lineup. It shared its C-body platform with Buick and Cadillac, offering a similar upscale experience.
Collectors appreciate the 98 as a comfortable and stylish American cruiser. Convertibles and two-door hardtops from the 1950s and 1960s are the most sought-after, prized for their iconic designs and powerful "Rocket" V8 engines. For enthusiasts on a budget, later sedans from the 1970s and 80s offer a lot of vintage luxury for a modest investment.
The market for the Oldsmobile 98 is diverse, with an average price of around $17,280. This figure is heavily influenced by restored convertibles, which can exceed $70,000. Meanwhile, well-kept four-door sedans from later generations can often be found for under $15,000, making them an accessible entry into the classic car world.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the biggest enemy. Carefully inspect the frame, floor pans, trunk floor, and the body panels behind each wheel well.
- The "Rocket" V8 engines are robust, but check for signs of oil leaks, especially from the rear main seal, and listen for any unusual noises.
- Test all power accessories. As a luxury model, the 98 is loaded with electric motors for windows, seats, and convertible tops that can be costly to repair.
- Exterior trim, especially unique chrome pieces and emblems, can be very difficult to source. Ensure everything is present and in good condition.
- Convertibles and two-door hardtops command a significant price premium over their four-door sedan counterparts.
Prices for the Oldsmobile 98 range from $1,500 for project cars to $74,900 for pristine, top-spec examples.
1,174 Oldsmobile 98 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 113 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Oldsmobile 98 cost?
Over the last 12 months, Oldsmobile 98 sold for a median of $20,900 across 37 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $9,500 and $44,500. There are 113 currently for sale.
How many Oldsmobile 98 listings are for sale right now?
There are 113 Oldsmobile 98 listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.