The Oldsmobile 88 (a.k.a. Eighty-Eight) was a full-size car sold by the Oldsmobile division of General Motors and produced from 1949 until 1999. From 1950 to 1974 the 88 was the division's top-selling line, particularly the entry-level models such as the 88 and Dynamic 88. The 88 series was also an image leader for Oldsmobile, particularly in the early years (1949–51) when it was one of the best performing automobiles thanks to its relatively small size, light weight and advanced overhead-valve high-compression V8 engine originally designed for the larger and more luxurious 98 series but dropped into the smaller six-cylinder Oldsmobile 76 body, creating what was considered the predecessor of musclecars of the 1960s.
A large number of variations in nomenclature were seen over this long model run—Delmont, Delta, Dynamic, Jetstar, Starfire, Super, Holiday, L/S, LSS, Celebrity, and Royale were used at various times with the 88 badge, and Fiesta appeared on some station wagons in the 1950s and 1960s. The name was more commonly shown as numbers in the earlier years ("Delta 88", for example) and was changed to spell-out "Eighty Eight" starting in 1989.
The Oldsmobile Eighty Eight was produced in Wentzville, Missouri; Flint, Michigan; and Lake Orion, Michigan.
Ninth generation 1986-1991
For 1986, the Delta 88 switched platforms from the GM B platform to the smaller front-wheel drive H platform, with a wheelbase of only 110.8 inches (2,814 mm). The headlights changed from square sealed beam quads to integrated regular/high beam composite lamps in 1987. A few NASCAR teams built racecars with 1986 Delta 88 sheetmetal and ran them on the circuit in the 86-88 seasons, but only one victory (with Terry Labonte) was scored.
Due to the federal mandate to add passive restraints, door mounted seat belts were added for 1987. For 1988, rear shoulder belts were added. For 1989, the "Delta" name was dropped, as was the hood ornament, leaving the model to simply become the "Eighty Eight," now spelled out instead of using the "88" in numerical form, and deleted the amber color from the taillights. A driver airbag became an available option.
The Eighty Eight was given a mild facelift in 1990, eliminating the former chromed grille for a body-colored fascia with four slots and the Oldsmobile Rocket logo. In the rear, new taillights and backup lights extended across the body; once again, chrome trim was deleted. Minor revisions were also made to the interior. Part of the door panel was revised and 1990 also offered new cloth for the seats. The Pillow Cushion seats on the Brougham were deleted. A revised armrest console was also added, this one provided more room. As an option was a revised electronic climate control system. A new choice of alloy wheels was an option.
1991 was the last year for the coupe. The model range during this time was the standard Eighty Eight, the Eighty Eight Royale, and the Eighty Eight Royale Brougham, in ascending order.
Engines:
1986–1988.5 – 3.8 L (231 in³) LG3 V6
1988.5–1991 – 3.8 L (231 in³) 3800 LN3 V6
Voice diagnostic system
This generation of Delta 88s had an optional voice diagnostic system that alerted the driver of problems. The voice was male and computer synthesized. In the event of a warning, the door chime played three times rapidly and then played the voice alert. This happened twice in case the driver missed the warning the first time. Every alert also had a corresponding light on the instrument cluster.
Warnings included:
"The engine coolant level is low!"
"The engine is overheating! Please stop the engine and consult the owner's manual!"
"The park brake is not fully released!"
"The key is in the ignition!" (Upon opening the door with the key inserted into the ignition.)
"The headlights are on!" (Upon turning off the car with the headlights on.) A light would also appear on the dash
Source: Wikipedia
Last edited by Man of Steel; 11-06-2019 at 11:30 PM.
Reply With Quote
