Oldsmobile 98 (6th generation)
The pinnacle of Oldsmobile's 'Linear Look' and Space Age opulence.
- Power
- 315 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.7 s
- Top speed
- 125 mph
- Est. value
- $25k–$105k
About the Oldsmobile 98
The 1959 Oldsmobile 98 represented a radical departure from the 'chrome-heavy' styling of 1958, introducing the sleek 'Linear Look' that defined General Motors' design for the new decade. As the flagship of the Oldsmobile range, it sat on an exclusive 126.3-inch wheelbase and featured the largest first-generation Rocket V8, displacing 394 cubic inches. It was technologically advanced for its era, coming standard with power steering, power brakes, and the 'Safety-Spectrum' speedometer that changed colour as speed increased. While less extreme than the fins of a contemporary Cadillac, the 98's 'booms' and expansive glass area made it a definitive symbol of American mid-century luxury.
Oldsmobile 98 specs
The Oldsmobile 98 produces 315 bhp (235 kW) and 590 Nm (435 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.7 seconds and has a top speed of 125 mph (201 km/h).
| Make | Oldsmobile |
|---|---|
| Model | 98 |
| Generation | Sixth Generation (6th generation) |
| Trim | 6.5 V8 |
| Years | 1959–1960 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 81,132 built |
| Original price | About $3,900 when new |
| Engine | 6.5-litre Rocket V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,457 cc (6.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 315 bhp (235 kW) at 4,600 rpm |
| Torque | 590 Nm (435 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 9.7 s |
| Top speed | 125 mph (201 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed Jetaway Hydra-Matic automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,055 kg (4,530 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 $25,000 – $105,000 (about £19,000 – £78,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,900.
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 51 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
- The 'Safety-Spectrum' speedometer used a rotating colour band that was green up to 35 mph, amber up to 65 mph, and red at higher speeds.
- The 1959 model year was a one-year-only body style; nearly all sheet metal was revised for 1960, including the unique split-headlight design.
- Despite the trend toward X-frames at GM, Oldsmobile insisted on a full perimeter frame for the 98 to ensure a superior, quiet ride.
