Ep 18. Olds Starfires

My Classic Car season 21 episode 18, titled "Olds Starfires," features host Dennis Gage exploring the world of classic cars through the lens of one particular make and model - the Oldsmobile Starfire.

Gage begins the episode with a brief history of the Starfire, noting that it was first introduced in 1961 as a sporty coupe that was meant to compete with the likes of the Ford Thunderbird and Chevrolet Corvette. It was initially a separate trim level offered on the Oldsmobile 88, but eventually became a standalone model in 1962.

With the history lesson out of the way, Gage introduces viewers to several owners of Olds Starfires, each of whom has their own unique story to tell about their love for the car.

First up is Dave Johnson, who owns a pristine 1961 Starfire convertible in bright red. Johnson describes how he came across the car in a barn, where it had been sitting for decades. He then worked to restore it to its former glory, even going so far as to track down the car's original owner and reunite him with the vehicle.

Next, Gage visits Karle Hruza, who has a 1963 Starfire coupe in silver. Hruza talks about the car's unique features, including its bucket seats and center console, which were cutting-edge at the time. He also shares some interesting stories about the car's history, including how it was stationed at a military base in Texas for several years.

The final owner featured in the episode is David Jackson, who has a stunning 1965 Starfire convertible in turquoise. Jackson talks about how he acquired the car from a collector in Florida and how he's made some improvements to it over the years, including adding a brand new top.

Throughout the episode, Gage provides some additional context and history about the Starfire, including how it evolved over the years and how it fits into the larger world of classic cars. He also showcases some of the details that make the Starfire unique, such as its jet-inspired taillights and iconic hood ornament.

Overall, "Olds Starfires" is a delightful episode that celebrates the enduring appeal of this classic car and the passionate owners who keep them on the road. Whether you're a die-hard car enthusiast or simply appreciate the timeless beauty of the Starfire, this episode is sure to leave you feeling inspired and nostalgic.