1974 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Convertible (RHD)

The Oldsmobile division of General Motors had the longest history of all, dating back to 1897 and classics like the Curved Dash model helped establish Ransom Eli Olds' reputation as a maker of quality motor cars. By the Seventies, Oldsmobile had become an upmarket brand within the General Motors Corporation, with a reputation for technical innovation thanks to their pioneering use of front-wheel drive on the Toronado. The mainstay of Oldsmobile's full-size model line-up was the Delta 88 series, which underwent a major restyle for 1974. A more luxurious version of the Delta 88, badged the Royale, was also marketed and this included the only convertible made by Oldsmobile for 1974, along with a hardtop coupe and two sedans. Inside, the Delta 88 Royale boasted plusher interior fittings, with upholstery in a choice of vinyl, cloth or leather, plus a Deluxe steering wheel. As one might expect, everything was power operated, including the assisted steering and power front disc brakes. The base engine in the Delta 88 (including Royale) was a 350-cid V8, with 180 hp on tap, but most were sold with the optional 455-cid V8 that churned out 210 hp. In either case, Turbo-Hydramatic transmission was standard equipment. The convertible Delta 88 Royale was certainly the rarest model in the line-up, with a mere 3,716 produced for the 1974 model year and the numbers to reach Australia over the years must be extremely small. As a luxury American cruiser, the Delta 88 convertible represents great value for money and - finished in white with matching upholstery like the car on offer - is an ideal wedding car.