We purchased our '71 Olds Delta 88 in 1997 from a small car lot in Phoenix for $1,000. At the time, we intended it to be the main family car, and for several years, it was. In the time we've owned it, the front suspension's been rebuilt, we've replaced the entire cooling system, installed a rebuilt engine, had the transmission rebuilt, and replaced the vinyl top. Eventually, I plan on having the body dings straightened and getting it painted. Although the interior's in alright shape, I also plan on tidying it up too. After that, who knows; maybe I'll just eventually go to Heaven in my Oldsmobile.
In September of 2014, I sold the Olds to a man in Russia named Sergey. He wanted it because his father had one back in the 70's. I'm not sure how an American sedan got behind the Iron Curtain during the height of the Cold War, but I'm sure there's an interesting story behind that.
Sergey and I have developed a good friendship through this experience. He promised to keep me updated on his restoration efforts. I'll post the photos here as the story progresses
I believe the car has gone to a good home and I hope it brings at least as much joy to Sergey as it did to me.
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Over the years I've made some additions that have increased the horsepower from the stock 240 horses.
Swapped the stock 2bbl carb for a 4bbl Quadrajet.....+ 20 hp.
Added an Edelbrock Performer intake manifold.........+ 10 hp.
Dual Flowmaster exhaust................................................+ 25 hp.
High performance air cleaner............................................+ 5hp.
HEI distributor, plugs and wires.........................................+ 5 hp.
That's an estimated 65 hp, bringing the total up to about 305 hp. These are rough estimates based solely on my own limited experience with all things automotive. If you have better information, please feel free to e-mail me the correct data.
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