1941 Oldsmobile Series 66 Woody Wagon

Description

Oldsmobile went through a period of several name changes for their model lineup in the 1930’s and 40’s. The F-series and L-series were replaced in 1939 by a numbered series, starting with 60. From 1941 onward, any Oldsmobile could be ordered with either the six or eight cylinder engine. Now, the “Series 66” denoted a Special with a six cylinder engine and “Series 68” indicated a Special with the eight-cylinder engine. Of course, as myriad of body styles could also be had with each series.

This eight passenger wagon was fitted to the Series 60 chassis and equipped with the rare Hydramatic transmission instead of the standard 3 speed with column shift. As was the tradition of the time, the wagon body was constructed of wood. GM used a variety of independent contractors to build their wood bodies, namely Cantrell, Ionia, and Hercules. But it was Hercules who was exclusively selected by Oldsmobile to build their bodies. Their work was notable for its exceptional quality and distinct upmarket looks with mahogany panels in the ash frame, rather than the less expensive Birch paneling used by Cantrell and Ionia. Of course, all of that hand-craftsmanship was expensive and it added a great deal to the sticker price of the mid-level Oldsmobile. As a result, it is believed that just 604 series 60 wagons were built in 1941, the final full year of production before WWII intervened. As with many similar wood bodied cars, attrition was generally high and it is not known how many survived weather and neglect.

This 1941 Oldsmobile Series 66 wagon is one of the finest examples of its kind. It was meticulously restored prior to our purchase, a true nut-and-bolt restoration in every sense of the term. The body is finished in a lovely period correct cream with an expertly trimmed brown interior and Everflex roof, a very handsome combination when combined with the beautifully restored wood. Paint finish and panel fit are exemplary, and the woodwork, which is largely original, has been lovingly refinished to a warm luster. The magnificent chrome trim is gorgeous and under the hood lies the robust 238 cubic inch inline six mated to a Hydramatic transmission. Engine bay detailing is executed to the same high standard as the rest of this wonderful Oldsmobile.