Image of 1973 Oldsmobile 98, sourced from www.hemmings.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1973 Oldsmobile 98 is a testament to American luxury and engineering prowess, standing as a flagship model of the Oldsmobile division of General Motors. This full-size sedan was a symbol of status and comfort during its era, offering a blend of power and elegance that was unmatched by many of its contemporaries. Born in an age when bigger often meant better, the '73 Oldsmobile 98 was a gentle giant cruising the highways with a quiet confidence. A notable moment in this vehicle's history is its role as a pace car for the Indianapolis 500, showcasing its blend of performance and luxury on one of racing's biggest stages.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1973 Oldsmobile 98 exuded sophistication with its long, flowing lines and broad shoulders. Chrome accents highlighted its commanding presence, while the distinctive front grille and emblematic 'rocket' insignia spoke to its heritage. Inside, passengers were treated to plush seating upholstered in premium materials, with woodgrain accents adorning the dashboard and door panels. Technologically advanced for its time, it featured power windows, air conditioning, and an optional 8-track player. Color options ranged from classic whites and blacks to more vibrant hues like reds and blues, with popular choices often reflecting the owner's personal style. The most iconic body style was arguably the Regency edition, which offered additional luxury features and trimmings.

Historical Significance

The Oldsmobile 98's impact on automotive design was significant, setting benchmarks for luxury sedans that followed. It stood out with its spacious interiors and advanced comfort features, influencing subsequent models across various manufacturers. The car's lasting influence can be seen in the continued pursuit of blending performance with luxury in today's automotive market.

Performance and Handling

Underneath the hood lay a powerful 455 cubic inch V8 engine that propelled the Oldsmobile 98 from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds—a remarkable feat for such a sizable vehicle. Its top speed was around 120 mph, impressive for a luxury sedan of that era. The ride was smooth even over bumps, thanks to a well-tuned suspension system. Drivers often remarked on the quiet hum of the engine and the solid yet comfortable feel of the ride—like being in command of a well-oiled locomotive.

Ownership Experience

The '73 Oldsmobile 98 served various roles from a reliable daily driver to an esteemed show car. Its durability made it suitable for everyday use while its grandeur lent itself to weekend exhibitions at car shows. Maintenance was relatively straightforward for those familiar with classic American engines, though some parts have become rarer over time. The overall reliability was commendable for a vehicle of its size and complexity.

Fun Facts

This classic has had its share of limelight with rare editions such as the Regency model adding to its allure. Celebrity ownerships have also been part of its storied past. While it didn't break speed records, it certainly set sales records for Oldsmobile at the time. Criticisms typically revolved around fuel efficiency—a common trait among vehicles from this era.

Collector's Information

The current value range for collectors can vary widely based on condition, mileage, and originality but generally falls between $10,000 to $30,000. With production numbers in the tens of thousands, rarity depends on the model year and preservation state. Price trends suggest that well-maintained examples are appreciating in value as they become more desirable to collectors seeking automotive nostalgia.

Conclusion

The 1973 Oldsmobile 98 is more than just a car; it's a piece of American history on wheels. Its combination of luxury features, robust performance, and timeless design has cemented its place in the hearts of classic car enthusiasts worldwide. As we look back on this automotive masterpiece, we're reminded that true elegance never goes out of style.

1973 Oldsmobile 98 RE-ISSUE. Door lock-pillar seal-ALP 5055RE-ISSUE. Door lock-pillar seal. Fits '71-'73 GM B-, C- and E-body 2-door hardtop, coupe and convertible (including Cadillac). This part has been completely re-designed from scratch with new cores and new molds. Replaces OEM#'s 9640451/2. Pair. R&L.

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high-BN 1Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high., with 7/16" I.D. Each

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit-BNK 21Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit. 22-piece set for two stabilizer bars. Contains all rubber bushings, washers, bolts and nuts, enough for one front end. Set

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Door Side Seal-C/LP 40-KDoor Side Seal. Made of smooth skin sponge extrusion, with clips installed. (For seal without clips, see LP 40-K) Sold by the foot.

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Molded Door Seal with Clips, Pair-LM 21-RDoor Seal for Rear Doors, 71-74 GM C Body 4 Door Hardtops (Except Cadillac), Pair, R&L. Replaces OEM #'s 9697680/9697681. Proudly MADE IN AMERICA and manufactured with Metro’s SUPERsoft Sponge™ - our vastly superior soft yet durable EPDM sponge rubber compound - to protect against the elements. SUPERsoft™ rubber

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Trunk Liner. Loose weave-M 23Trunk Liner. Loose weave. Black with scattered white threads. 54" wide. Sold by the foot

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-EBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861. 5" X 2-1/2". Each

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Oil Filler Hole Cap. Made of rubber-RP 8Oil Filler Hole Cap. Made of rubber. Fits a 1-3/16" to 1-1/4" hole. Each

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Molded Roof Rail Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop-RR 5007Molded Roof Rail Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop. Made with molded ends. 73-5/8" long. Pair R&L

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Molded Roof Rail Seals for 4-Door Hardtop-RR 5007-FMolded Roof Rail Seals for 4-Door Hardtop. Replaces OEM part # 9726974/5. Pair

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Front door window stop bumper. ’70-’81 GM passenger cars-SB 70-AFront door window stop bumper. '70-'81 GM passenger cars. Dense rubber. Replaces OEM# 9810036. Each.

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Trunk Seal. Each-TK 46-E/18Trunk Seal. Each

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Unbeaded Door and Trunk Lock Gasket. 1-3/16" O.D., 7/8" I.D-UM 1600-100Unbeaded Door and Trunk Lock Gasket. 1-3/16" O.D., 7/8" I.D. Each

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Rear Roll-Up Quarter Window Seals, for 4-Door Hardtops-VS 3-PRear Roll-Up Quarter Window Seals, for 4-Door Hardtops. Pair

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel-WF 205Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel. 1-3/8" X 11/16". Each

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1"-WF 209Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1". Each

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. For models with vinyl top-WF 210Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. For models with vinyl top. 3/4" x 1-1/16". Each

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 211Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 15/16" X 3/4". Each

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 223Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 1/1/8" X 3/4". Each

1973 Oldsmobile 98 Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 224Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 1-1/4" X 3/4". Fits many models. Each