1954 Oldsmobile 98 Starfire Convertible
Engine: V-8
Displacement: 324 Cubic Inches
Horsepower: 185 BHP
Cost New: $3,173
         In 1954, Oldsmobile released its all-new cars with the advertising line "In Design...In Power...In Glamour - The Newest New Oldsmobile in Fifty-seven Years of Progressive Triumphs." Getting the jump on their competition, Oldsmobile released their new body style a year ahead of everybody but Buick and Cadillac.
         The original Oldsmobile Starfire, named after the Lockheed F9413 Starfire fighter jet, was introduced as a show car in 1953 at the GM Motorama, along with the Buick Skylark and the Cadillac Eldorado. The show car had wrap-around windshield and a combination bumper and grill.
         This convertible-only model, inspired by the limited edition 1953 Fiesta, was a bargain at $3,713. With a sweeping beltline, bullet-like taillights and bold two-tone paint with leather interiors, the Starfire had a stunning mid-century appearance. With performance provided by the now legendary Rocket V-8 and the highly respected four-speed Hydramatic transmission, Oldsmobile lead the way in power once again. Model year production of the 1954 Starfire was only 6,800 vehicles.