Oldsmobile 98 (9th generation)
The pinnacle of Oldsmobile luxury and the debut of the ninth-generation flagship.
- Power
- 320 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.5 s
- Top speed
- 118 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$27k
About the Oldsmobile 98
The 1971 Oldsmobile 98 (Ninety-Eight) marked the introduction of the ninth generation, built on General Motors' largest C-body platform. It was the division's flagship, sharing its chassis with the Buick Electra and Cadillac DeVille, but distinguished by its 'Rocket' V8 and unique styling. For 1971, the 455 cubic-inch engine saw a reduction in compression to 8.5:1 to accommodate lower-octane unleaded fuel, yet it remained a torque-heavy cruiser. Collectors value the 1971 model for its massive presence, being one of the longest Oldsmobiles ever produced at over 226 inches.
Oldsmobile 98 specs
The Oldsmobile 98 produces 320 bhp (239 kW) and 624 Nm (460 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.5 seconds and has a top speed of 118 mph (190 km/h).
| Make | Oldsmobile |
|---|---|
| Model | 98 |
| Generation | Ninth Generation (9th generation) |
| Trim | 7.5 V8 |
| Years | 1971–1976 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 50,248 built |
| Original price | About $5,200 when new |
| Engine | 7.5-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 7,456 cc (7.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 320 bhp (239 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 624 Nm (460 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 9.5 s |
| Top speed | 118 mph (190 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,085 kg (4,597 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 153 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Oldsmobile 98 worth?
A typical Oldsmobile 98 is estimated to be worth $8,000 – $27,000 (about £6,000 – £20,000).
Its original price when new was about $5,200.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Oldsmobile 98 rarity in CarSpot
The Oldsmobile 98 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 37 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Oldsmobile 98 fun facts
- The 1971 model year was the first for the ninth generation, featuring a massive 127-inch wheelbase that provided a 'limousine-like' ride.
- Despite its luxury focus, the 455 'Rocket' V8 produced a staggering 460 lb-ft of gross torque, allowing the 2.3-ton car to move with surprising ease.
- The 1971 Ninety-Eight featured 'Flo-Thru' ventilation, a controversial one-year design that used louvres on the boot lid to pull air through the cabin.
