In a continuation of our full-size cars series, last month we covered the 1970-1972 Buicks, this month we cover the full-size Oldsmobiles. In particular, the forgotten pace car. One of the most overlooked collectible cars is the 1977 ½ Delta 88 Pace car replica. This marked the fourth time that Oldsmobile had paced the Indy 500. A special built coupe with a targa top and bucket seats and console did the actual pacing duties. The 2,401 replicas were less stunning. In fact, it is their low key appearance that has made them so over looked. Many have sold as nothing more then a two-tone Oldsmobile; this lack of knowledge can be an asset if your looking for one.
The Delta 88 pace car comes with special black and silver tones with red accent paint, red/chrome spoke wheels with GR70x15 white letter tires and blacked out door frames, grille and head lamp and tail lamp housings. Hiding under the hood was a 403-ci 185-hp. Inside was a custom red velour bench seat. Bucket seats were not available but a split back seat with center arm rest was. A custom sport steering wheel and dual sport mirrors completed the look. Pace car graphics were available under a separate option, and most cars were ordered without the graphics, thus giving them the appearance of a simple two tone car.
Documenting the car is easy. Look for the paint code 13-13 (13-BB with the optional black 1/4 vinyl top) and the codes 45 or 65 for the trim on the Fisher body tag on the firewall. As to how many out there have survived? We don't know. We couldn't find a photo of one. If you have one we would be interested in hearing from you.
Show Me Car Price Scale
Model
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Class 1
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Class 2
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Class 3
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Class 4
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Class 5
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Salvage
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1977 1/2 Delta 88 Pace Car
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5200.00
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4150.00
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3150.00
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1200.00
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850.00
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450.00
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We base our prices on current markets that these models are selling for. Or that the base current mode is selling with an increase for special add ons. This is a summary of our classifications.
Class 1- 100% restored to factory specifications. Looks like it came right off the showroom floor. A Class 1 car is not driven. Very few cars are Class 1.
Class 2- An original that is very well-maintained showing only minimal wear. Could be an older professional restoration. Driven less then 1,000 miles a year.
Class 3- What most show cars are. Looks excellent 20 feet away. But there are obvious signs worn foot pedals and carpeting, chrome is not as bright, but all systems are in operating order. Driven less then 3,000 mile a year.
Class 4- A common used car. Easily shows signs of wear even from 20 feet away. But all systems are in working order or need only minor repairs to make them so. A restoration driven over 3,000 miles a year. Could have light body damage, but no replacement of body panels.
Class 5- Needs total restoration. Damaged front fenders, hood or door panels that need to be replaced. Car can be running or not. No rusted out floor pans, rear quarters or roof panels.
Salvage- Usually not running. Rusted out floor pans, roof but not stripped to the point that it is not useful for parts.
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