Oldsmobile 98 (2nd generation)
The pinnacle of pre-war Oldsmobile luxury, featuring the pioneering Hydra-Matic drive.
- Power
- 110 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.5 s
- Top speed
- 84 mph
- Est. value
- $14k–$52k
About the Oldsmobile 98
The 1942 Oldsmobile 98 represented the top of the line for the marque, sitting on the long-wheelbase C-body platform shared with Cadillac. This model year is exceptionally rare due to the abrupt halt of civilian car production in February 1942 for the Allied war effort. It was powered by the 'Custom 8 Cruiser' straight-eight engine and was a primary showcase for the Hydra-Matic, the world's first fully mass-produced automatic transmission. The 1942 models are distinguished by their 'double-deck' bumper design and integrated headlights, marking a transition toward post-war styling.
Oldsmobile 98 specs
The Oldsmobile 98 produces 110 bhp (82 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.5 seconds and has a top speed of 84 mph (135 km/h).
| Make | Oldsmobile |
|---|---|
| Model | 98 |
| Generation | Second Generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | 5.7 V8 |
| Years | 1941–1947 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 6,665 built |
| Original price | About $1,300 when new |
| Engine | 5.7-litre L-head straight-eight |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,703 cc (5.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 110 bhp (82 kW) at 3,400 rpm |
| Torque | 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 16.5 s |
| Top speed | 84 mph (135 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,750 kg (3,858 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 63 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 $14,000 – $52,000 (about £10,000 – £39,000).
Its original price when new was about $1,300.
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 a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 49 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 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
- Production of the 1942 model lasted only about four months before Oldsmobile shifted entirely to manufacturing cannons and shells for World War II.
- The 1942 Oldsmobile was among the first cars to offer a fully automatic transmission, a revolutionary feature that cost an additional $100 at the time.
- Late-production 1942 models are known as 'blackout' cars because chrome trim was replaced with painted metal to conserve strategic materials for the war.
