Tech & Auto
The Most Underappreciated Muscle Cars Ever Made By Oldsmobile
By JOE CAPRARO
Rocket 88
Introduced in 1949, the Oldsmobile Rocket 88 is considered by many to be Detroit’s first muscle car. It was powered by a 303 cubic-inch V8 that produced 135 horsepower.
The car dominated the NASCAR circuit for several years and would spawn a line of Oldsmobile 88 models until 1999. Restore mint condition Rocket 88s are valued as high as $50,000.
Starfire
The Starfire was introduced as a prototype model in 1953 and eventually became bigger and more luxury-focused as it went into production in the mid-1960s.
While '60s-era Starfires in top condition can fetch upwards of $50,000, several drivable and rust-free examples have sold for less than $20,000 in recent years.
Toronado
The Toronado was enormous at 211 inches long and 4,800 pounds. Its 425 cubic inch V8 produced an astonishing 385 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque.
It won Motor Trend’s 1966 Car of the Year award; unfortunately, its first generation was the Toronado’s peak in popularity. Pre-1970 models routinely sell for less than $20,000.