1961 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 'Bubble Top' Coupe
1961 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 'Bubble Top' Coupe | Photo Credit: RM Sotheby's

1961 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 ‘Bubble Top’ Coupe

In a move to modernize its lineup, Oldsmobile introduced a completely new 88 for 1961. The full-size car was now shorter, lower, and narrower than its predecessor, while utilizing the same 123-in. wheelbase. With styling inspired by the burgeoning “Space Race,” General Motors’ “Rocket” division produced a car that looked ballistically fast even while sitting still. Under the hood, the 371-cu. in. V-8 was replaced by the 98 model’s 394-cu. in. unit, with the Dynamic 88 receiving 250 hp. The redesigned 88 ‘Bubble Top’ coupe was fast, spacious, luxurious, and stylish, everything you’d expect from an Oldsmobile.

1961 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 'Bubble Top' Coupe
1961 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 ‘Bubble Top’ Coupe | Photo Credit: RM Sotheby’s
1961 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 'Bubble Top' Coupe
1961 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 ‘Bubble Top’ Coupe | Photo Credit: RM Sotheby’s