We often think that buying new things will make us feel good, and whenever we need to lift our spirits up we go shopping. But how often do you catch yourself thinking about the past and smiling? Quite often I bet. And there is a reason for that.
When something is good, it is good; and nothing can change that, even time. This is the reason why many of us hold on to old stuff. Your old pair of jeans, an old pair of shoes, an old bike, or an old car. These things may be old, but when they are good and still do their job, it certainly means something to you. You love them, you treat them well, and no matter where you go, you take them with you!
We love and we hold .. that old classic car
Classic cars are highly collectible items. Those old American cars we see at auctions and car shows mean a lot and often cost a lot. They reveal the old glory of the good old times. They bring nostalgia, and people hold on to them for decades, and often for life.
Collecting classic and antique automobiles … for the old glory
One very beautiful old car we love is “The Golden Rocket” – The Oldsmobile. The 1957 model marked Oldsmobile’s 50th anniversary, and to commemorate the occasion the base model was called the “Golden Rocket 88” and the engine color was changed to gold.
General Motors produced the 88 from 1949 to 1999. Between 1950 and 1974 it was the division’s top-selling line. They produced 35.2 million cars and at least 14 million were built in Lancing, Michigan. The 88 had a V8 installed at a lightweight, compact body, which made it one of the most memorable muscle cars of all time.
This Oldsmobile Super 88 is a high-performance car that features a J-2 engine option that offers plenty of “rocket” power to bump the V8 to a remarkable 312 horsepower.
The engine and the body style made it an immediate success with the public at large and the car racing community. It also had the first wraparound windshield, a trend that was later shared by all American cars. The J-2 powered Oldsmobile 88 was a favorite of NASCAR driver Richard Petty because it was a winner.
The automobile inspired the first rock and roll song, “Rocket 88” by Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats. The song made it to number one R&B charts. “Make a date with a Rocket 88” was also inspired by the car’s widely popular slogan.
…
Let me introduce you to my Rocket ’88.
Yes it’s great, just won’t wait,
Everybody likes my Rocket ’88.
Gals will ride in style,
Movin’ all along.V-8 motor and this modern design,
My convertible top and the gals don’t mind
Sportin’ with me, ridin’ all around town for joy.
Blow your horn, Rocket, blow your horn.
…
The popularity of the “Golden Rocket” in 1958, during one of the worst recessions, confirmed the authority it had accomplished. The long production lifespan of the Oldsmobile 88 is not surprising to historians. It was a huge success back then and it is a highly collectible car now.
Collectors worldwide search, buy, and ship high-value cars such as the “Golden Rocket.” The trend is sure to continue. Who wouldn’t want to hold on to the old glory of the “Golden Rocket”?
Images: General Motors Archive
