Oldsmobile Series 98 Second Generation 1942–1947
| Second generation | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Overview | |
| Model years | 1942–1947 |
| Assembly | South Gate, California, U.S. Kansas City, Kansas, U.S. Lansing, Michigan, U.S. Linden, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Designer | Harley Earl |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 2-door coupe 4-door sedan 2-door convertible |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Platform | C-body |
| Related | Cadillac Series 62 Buick Roadmaster Buick Super |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 257 cu in (4.2 L) Oldsmobile I8 |
| Transmission | 3-speed synchromesh manual 4-speed Hydramatic automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 127.0 in (3,226 mm) |
| Length | 216.0 in (5,486 mm) |
| Curb weight | 3,800–4,300 lb (1,700–2,000 kg) |
In 1942 the Custom Cruiser 98 was once again the Oldsmobile entrant into the luxury market.
Gone was the single year offering of the 96. All cars in this series were powered by the straight eight engine. Also gone in this shortened model year was the ultra rare 4-door convertible. An exclusive 127.0 in (3,226 mm) inch wheelbase was used in the series. A total of 6,659 98s were made before production was shut down due to the war.
Again in 1946 the Custom Cruiser 98 was the top of the Oldsmobile line. Three body styles were offered (a 4-door sedan, a 2-door Club coupe and a 2-door convertible) and all were eight cylinder powered. Technical features included electro hardened pistons, full pressure lubrication and automatic choke with fast idle mode. Standard equipment included front and rear bumper guards, vacuum booster pump, dual sun visors, cigarette lighter and plastic radiator ornament, wraparound bumpers, Deluxe instrument cluster clock, rear armrest, and foam rubber sheet cushions. Tire size was 7.00 (178) by 15 inches (381 millimetres). Available upholstery was either leather, broadcloth, or Bedford cord. 14,364 98s were sold in its first postwar year of production.
In 1947 the top of the line Custom Cruiser 98 again had three body styles. This was the last year for the 98 1942 prewar body. All 98s had the straight eight engine. Standard 98 equipment included safety glass, spare wheel and tire, dual horns, vacuum booster pump, cigarette lighter, and a solenoid starter system. Upholstery was either custom broadcloth or leather. Standard tire size was 7.00 (178) by 15 inches (381 millimetres). An electric clock was standard in 1947. A record 37,140 98s were sold in 1947.