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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →On the 1949 Oldsmobile, “88” identified a Series 80 model with an eight-cylinder engine. It was not an engine displacement: the 1949 car’s V-8 measured 303.73 cubic inches. “Rocket” was the engine’s name; “88” was the model designation.
What the “88” designation meant
Oldsmobile’s 1949 period material identifies the car as the Series 88 and specifies an eight-cylinder Rocket engine. The number is understood as combining the Series 80 designation with the engine’s eight cylinders—a naming pattern that paired series or body size with cylinder count. The period documents establish the Series 88 label and its eight-cylinder engine; the explanation of the numbering convention is described in a historical Oldsmobile reference.
The 1949 brochure also presents the Series 76 and Series 88 as similar offerings distinguished by their engines: the 88 received the new eight-cylinder Rocket. This comparison helps explain the original designation, but should not be assumed to describe every later Oldsmobile nameplate.
Does “88” mean 88 cubic inches?
No. The Automobile Manufacturers Association’s 1948 specification for the 1949 Oldsmobile 88 lists eight cylinders and a displacement of 303.73 cubic inches. “88” is a model designation, not an engine-size figure.
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- HO Scale.
- Scale model, not a toy. Ages 14+.
- The Oldsmobile Rocket 88 was typical of the early 1950s post-war bulbous solid looking body shapes. For its second appearance in Oxford’s 1:87 scale American series, it comes in a muted blue with contrasting black with black interior.
- Registered 17 T1040 Colorful California 1950, the model also features the Oldsmobile Rocket 88 emblem in chrome across the boot with the arrow running through the number.
- The company would retain the 88 logo well into the 1990s.
What does “Rocket 88” refer to?
“Rocket 88” joins the model name to Oldsmobile’s Rocket V-8. General Motors dates the Rocket V-8’s launch to 1949, the same year the 88 was introduced. In other words, Rocket names the engine and 88 identifies the model.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Did every Oldsmobile 88 have the same engine or trim?
No. The engine details above describe the 1949 introduction, not every car sold under the 88 name in later years. The badge also appeared in variants: GM’s 1957 heritage entry, for example, lists Golden Rocket 88 and Super 88 alongside the Starfire 98. Those later variants show that “88” became part of a model line rather than denoting one unchanged trim or engine specification.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Brand new box. True-to-scale detail. Detailed interior, exterior. Does not have any openings. Comes in plastic display showcase. Manufacturer's original unopened packaging. Dimensions approximately L-2.25 inches long. Made of diecast metal with some plastic parts.
Rank #4
- 1955 Oldsmobile Super 88 Convertible - 22432/4D Showcasts Model Vehicle
- 1/24 Scale Collectible Model Full Size Convertible Car
- This is a 7.75"L x 3"W x 2.5"H Diecast Metal model with some plastic parts
- Freewheeling, Openable Doors And Hood
- Box of 4 cars
Rank #3
- 1:18 Scale Precision: Experience the nostalgia in perfect detail with our 1:18 scale die-cast replica, showcasing the 1950 Oldsmobile Rocket 88 with remarkable accuracy.
- Distinctive Design: Admire the classic Chariot Red exterior with a Black Hardtop, a timeless combination that pays homage to the iconic style of the era and adds a touch of vintage flair to your collection.
- Engine Excellence: Explore the detailed engine, showcasing the power that defined an era of American racing, and appreciate the accuracy of the interior and chassis that mirrors the original design.
- Interactive Showcase: Take control with steerable front wheels, and uncover the meticulous details through opening doors, hood, and trunk, allowing you to immerse yourself in the craftsmanship and intricacies of this vintage masterpiece.
- Collector's Delight: The 1950 Oldsmobile Rocket 88 AMM1304 is more than a scale model – it's a collector's delight, bringing the thrill of Fireball Roberts' legendary racing season right into your hands.
Rank #2
- 1955 Super 88 Convertible - 22432/4D Model Vehicle
- 1/24 Scale Collectible Model Convertible Car
- This is a 7.75"L x 3"W x 2.5"H Diecast Metal model with some plastic parts
- Opening Doors, Hood And Freewheeling
- 1 Car, no box
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