| Oldsmobile “Rocket” 88
When World War II ended, Americans were quick to regain their love of the automobile. Production had ground to a halt during the war, with Lansing’s car factories transformed into ammunition plants. But once peace returned, GM was quick to start up car production again and eager to deliver something new and exciting.
The first Oldsmobile 88 was made for the 1949 model year. Its relatively small and light body and powerful engine made it a precursor to the muscle cars that would come in later decades.
But it was the engine, not just the styling, that really set the car apart.
The car’s nickname, the “Rocket 88,” referred to the new kind of engine that powered the vehicle. Made in Lansing, the Rocket engine (originally named the Kettering engine after GM’s chief engineer), it was the first mass-produced overhead valve V-8 engine, and it quickly became a hit with car enthusiasts.
The Rocket 88 was immortalized in 1951, when Ike Turner recorded “Rocket 88,” a song extolling the powerful car. Many music historians consider this to be the first rock and roll song ever recorded.
Pontiac Grand Am
EV1
Cadillac CTS
Chevrolet SSR
Buick Enclave |