How much horsepower does a 1957 Oldsmobile Super 88 have?
The standard 1957 Oldsmobile Super 88 produced about 270 horsepower, while a rare Jetfire turbocharged version pushed power to roughly 370 horsepower. Horsepower figures from the era vary depending on whether SAE gross or SAE net ratings were used, and whether the car had the turbo option.
In 1957, Oldsmobile’s Super 88 line relied on the Rocket V8 family, with a mid-century emphasis on performance marketing. The Super 88 could be equipped with the regular 371 cubic inch V8, and a small number of cars were sold with the Jetfire turbocharged upgrade, making for a notable difference in performance. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the power options and the rating context that surrounds these numbers.
Engine options and horsepower figures
What the Super 88 offered in terms of power, including the standard engine and the rare turbocharged option:
- Standard Rocket 371 cu in V8 — about 270 horsepower (SAE gross).
- Jetfire Turbocharged option — about 370 horsepower (SAE gross).
These figures reflect the horsepower conventions of the 1950s, with the Jetfire option representing a significant boost due to turbocharging. For most everyday Super 88s, the standard engine was the norm, while the Jetfire variant remains a rare performance specialty.
Measurement and historical context
Understanding the numbers requires knowing how horsepower was measured in the era and what changes occurred over time:
- SAE gross horsepower (used in the 1950s) gave higher numbers because test conditions excluded many engine accessories and auxiliaries.
- SAE net horsepower (modern standard) includes accessory losses and is typically lower than gross ratings.
- Jetfire horsepower (the turbocharged option) is commonly cited as around 370 horsepower gross, with some variation based on test conditions and vintage documentation.
Because the 1957 measurements and the Turbo Jetfire option were relatively uncommon and poorly standardized across all catalogs, horsepower figures can vary between brochures, service manuals, and enthusiasts’ references.
Notes on the Jetfire option
The Jetfire-equipped Super 88 was a limited-production model and represents a transitional moment in American performance cars. If you’re trying to confirm horsepower for a specific car, check the original window sticker, build sheet, or the VIN decode to verify whether the Jetfire option was installed and which rating it cites.
Summary
In summary, the 1957 Oldsmobile Super 88 delivered about 270 horsepower from its standard 371 cu in Rocket V8. A rare Jetfire turbocharged version offered roughly 370 horsepower, representing a dramatic boost from turbocharging. Remember that era-specific ratings (SAE gross vs. net) and the presence or absence of the Jetfire option influence the exact figure for any given car.
