In the world of vintage automobiles, few names strike a nostalgic chord quite like the Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser. These full-size station wagons were once the heartbeat of American family travel, offering unmatched space, comfort, and style. Now, one particularly rare example – a low-mileage 1987 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser – is turning heads in New Jersey.
If you are a car collector, an automotive enthusiast, or someone who just appreciates the fine craft of American classics, this might be a golden opportunity.
🚗 A Rare Find: What Makes This Oldsmobile Special?
While the Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser was produced from the early 1970s through the early 1990s, finding a well-preserved model from 1987 with low mileage is exceptionally rare. The car up for sale reportedly has very few miles on the odometer, making it a highly desirable collectible for vintage car fans.
What sets this vehicle apart?
- Low Mileage: Often, classic cars lose their value due to heavy usage or poor maintenance. A low-mile example preserves the integrity of the original components and keeps resale value high.
- Original Parts: From the dashboard to the upholstery, most of the parts in this car remain untouched.
- Garage Kept: Preserved indoors, protected from harsh elements, which helps in maintaining its aesthetic and mechanical quality.
📅 1987: The Final Years of a Legendary Wagon
By 1987, the Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser had undergone several refinements. This year was one of the final full production runs before the model was phased out in the early 1990s. In the 1980s, these wagons were icons of suburban America—ideal for family road trips, vacations, and weekend outings.
Key Features of the 1987 Model:
- Engine: Typically equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine.
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic transmission.
- Length & Size: True to its “cruiser” name, this wagon was long and spacious.
- Seating Capacity: Comfortably seated 8 with rear-facing third-row seats.
- Tailgate: The signature “clamshell” tailgate design (in older models) was replaced with a split design that remained stylish and functional.
🛋️ Interior: A Retro Dream Come True
Step inside the 1987 Custom Cruiser and you’re transported to a time when cars were built for comfort and character. Plush bench seats, woodgrain dashboard inserts, chrome accents, and power windows were all part of the appeal.
- Materials: Premium velour or leather upholstery, depending on trim.
- Dash Design: Analog gauges with the classic Oldsmobile layout.
- Space: The rear cargo area could carry luggage for the entire family and then some.
The vintage charm of the Custom Cruiser’s interior is often compared to a luxurious living room on wheels. Everything about it reflects the American ethos of road-tripping in style.
⚙️ Performance That Still Holds Up
Despite being nearly four decades old, the 1987 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser still offers a smooth driving experience. The large V8 engine, while not built for speed, provides enough torque for highway cruising and city commuting.
- Horsepower: Around 140–170 HP depending on the specific configuration.
- Ride Quality: Soft suspension setup made for comfort.
- Handling: Predictably heavy but stable—built for long hauls, not sharp corners.
Collectors today often retrofit these classics with modern components to improve fuel efficiency or safety, but purists prefer to keep everything original.
🎨 Exterior Styling: Timeless American Design
The Custom Cruiser was known for its massive presence. It featured long body lines, fake wood paneling (a staple of the era), chrome bumpers, and whitewall tires.
- Length: Nearly 18 feet long—longer than most modern SUVs.
- Wood Paneling: The signature simulated woodgrain siding gave it instant recognition.
- Roof Rack: Standard for those family camping trips or surfboard hauls.
This particular 1987 model up for sale appears to be in pristine condition, with no major rust, dents, or wear—a remarkable feat for its age.
💰 The Collector’s Market: Is It Worth Buying?
If you’re wondering whether it’s a wise investment, the answer is a definite yes—if you’re buying it for the right reasons. While these cars may not skyrocket in value overnight, low-mileage, well-preserved wagons like this one are becoming rarer each year.
Benefits for Collectors:
- High nostalgia value
- Limited availability
- Stable appreciation if maintained well
- Potential for classic car shows or movie use
🛠️ Maintenance and Parts Availability
One of the reasons why enthusiasts love classic American cars is the ease of maintenance. Parts for the 1987 Custom Cruiser are still relatively easy to find due to GM’s extensive production lines and the availability of aftermarket support.
- Engine Parts: Interchangeable with other GM models of the time.
- Body Panels: Can be sourced from donor cars or specialty resellers.
- Labor: Many mechanics familiar with classic American cars can service these.
Keeping it in top condition won’t break the bank, especially if the new owner is hands-on with basic automotive work.
🌟 Conclusion: A Blast from the Past That Deserves the Spotlight
The 1987 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser isn’t just a car—it’s a symbol of an era when cars were more than just transportation. With its low mileage, original parts, and vintage charm, this specific model in New Jersey offers an extraordinary chance to own a piece of automotive history.
Whether you’re a serious collector or a passionate nostalgic, this is one cruiser that’s worth the ride.
