The 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Custom Holiday Sedan four-door hardtop is a classic car that represents the prestige and luxury of the Oldsmobile brand during that era. The B Platform, which was used by GM’s full-size cars from 1965 to 1970, was highly successful and underpinned nearly 13 million vehicles. While each of the U.S.-market GM car divisions had their own B-Bodies, the Delta 88 Custom stood out as the king of Olds B-Bodies in 1968.
During this time, the lines between GM divisions were starting to blur, with Chevrolet offering the high-priced Caprice and options that could surpass the price of a Buick LeSabre. However, the Oldsmobile brand still held a certain level of swank that set it apart from its Chevy and Pontiac siblings. The Olds 88 came with a genuine Rocket V8 engine, which added to its allure and performance. The 1968 Delta 88 Custom specifically featured a powerful 455-cubic-inch Rocket V8 engine that produced 365 horsepower and an impressive 510 pound-feet of torque.
Although these power numbers are gross and not net, they still made the Delta 88 Custom a quick and powerful car for its time. Even Buick’s 430-cubic-inch engine couldn’t match the torque of the Delta 88. While fuel economy may not have been a top concern for Oldsmobile buyers back then, it’s worth noting that this car required premium gasoline and likely didn’t achieve double-digit fuel efficiency.
Options played a significant role in elevating the cost of the Delta 88 Custom. With additional features like power windows, the out-the-door price of the vehicle could easily surpass its MSRP of $3,721 in 1968 (equivalent to approximately $34,214 in 2024). The luxury and performance of the Delta 88 Custom were reflected in its price tag.
The Oldsmobile Delta series borrowed names from American fighter jets, with the Delta 88 drawing its inspiration from the F-102 Delta Dagger. The brand’s commitment to aviation-inspired names added to its appeal and market positioning. Additionally, the 1968 Delta 88 Custom was built at GM’s original Fairfax Assembly in Kansas City, which has historical significance as a site where B-25 Mitchell bombers were constructed during World War II.
While the Delta 88 Custom found in a Denver self-service junkyard is not in the best condition, with a worn interior, it still holds value and nostalgia for enthusiasts. However, it is worth noting that two-door and convertible models from this era tend to receive more attention and popularity among collectors.
Unfortunately, despite its rich history and success throughout the years, the Oldsmobile Division was discontinued in 2004, marking the end of an era for the brand. Nevertheless, vehicles like the 1968 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Custom Holiday Sedan four-door hardtop continue to captivate car enthusiasts and serve as reminders of the brand’s legacy.