Pre-bids

1938 Oldsmobile F-38 Touring Sedan

Highlights

  • Handsome example of one of Oldsmobile's most eye-catching art deco sedans
  • Rare right-hand drive example, based in the UK from new
  • Highly original interior with extravagant art deco instruments

The Appeal

 

Oldsmobile were kings of art deco. As the 30s plied their merry trade, the company's influence was felt across the entirety of General Motors. Most of the product base was soon being redesigned by Harley Earl, and by 1937 the car was a beautiful, curvy and indisputably handsome array of curves and angles that looked fast when standing still. 

Despite this, the company - well aware of the shaky financial market - stuck to their tried-and-tested straight-six. As a result, it wasn't exactly a powerhouse, but it felt imposing, purposeful and stately. For the well-to-do customer seduced by those lines and the cabin's warm luxury, that was more than sufficient. 

UK examples did exist - but were rare. This particular one was supplied new to Mr Frederick Short of Rickmansworth, who cherished the car for some 50 years. Now, 37 years and only 4 keepers later, this handsome art-deco tourer is ready and waiting for its lucky new owner. 

The History and Paperwork 

  • Registered in 1938
  • Supplied to Mr Frederick Short of Rickmansworth, who kept the car until 1988
  • With 2nd keeper from 1996 until 2007
  • 3rd keeper from 2007 to 2009
  • 4th owner from 2009 to 2012
  • With current keeper from 2012 to present
  • Currently indicates 02,586 miles on a five-figure odometer
  • MOT exempt
  • Accompanied by a collection of invoices

The Condition 

  • Impressive jet black paintwork, picked out in lashings of chrome
  • Bodywork is free of any significant dents or dings
  • Some light swirling and wear to the paintwork, commensurate with age
  • Badges and branding appear all-present and correct
  • We're told that the chassis is solid 
  • Internally, the car is exceptionally original
  • Grey cord upholstery is in good order for the car's venerable years
  • Matching door cards in good order
  • The dashboard is a real treat - fabulous chromework with deco numerals
  • Instruments all appear original, with some modifications from later in the car's life
  • Headlining carries some light signs of wear, commensurate with age
  • We understand everything to be working as it should 

The Mechanics 

  • Powered by the well-respected 4195cc Oldsmobile Straight-6
  •  3-speed manual transmission
  • Engine bay looks in good order
  • The vendor reports that the car is ready and waiting to be driven away
  • We've no reports of any mechanical issues
 
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BEFORE YOU BUY 
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 
The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions
We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 
This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 
We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. 
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Pre-bids

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Auction Details

  • Year1938
  • MakeOldsmobile
  • ModelF 37
  • ColourBlack
  • Odometer2,506 Miles
  • Engine size4195cc
  • Seller TypeTrade
  • TownPetersfield
  • CountyHampshire
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

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