Real-deal code 46 GS. Engine stamping matches VIN. Beautiful color combination. Numerous upgrades. Very clean throughout. New tires. Factory A/C and working cruise control. A muscle-bound Buick with a pedigree for a fraction of the price of the other A-bodies!
We?re not sure why, but Buicks never seem to get the same respect as their Chevy and Pontiac siblings. The good news is that you can own a car like this 1968 Buick GS 400 for far less cash than a comparable Chevelle or GTO, and it delivers the same muscle car experience. In fact, we?d argue that the Buick is a better car, with superior build quality and a more substantial feel out on the road. And when they?re as pretty as this code D Blue Mist GS, the argument is pretty easy to make. The restoration was probably finished in the early 2000s but we don?t have any documentation on it. However, the super straight bodywork looks awesome and we don?t see any evidence of botched repairs or substandard workmanship. Panel gaps are even, that crease running from nose to tail is crisp, and there?s a nice shine to the paint. Experts will quickly spot that this car wears a 1969 GS hood, which includes functional Ram Air, but that?s a subtle distinction that probably improves performance. There?s also a nice white vinyl top that fits well and doesn?t show any signs of rust issues underneath. The chrome and stainless trim is excellent, it wears correct GS badges, and someone has cleverly integrated a third brake light into the rear bumper?cool!
The code 152 white vinyl interior is a combination of original and restored pieces that have a consistent, high-quality look. We?re betting that the door panels are original, and maybe even the seats, but there are newer black carpets on the floor and a bright white headliner overhead. The three-spoke steering wheel frames the gauges, which cover only the basics, so someone has added a trio of auxiliary dials under the dash, along with a big tachometer, all of which have white faces to match the factory setup. Aftermarket cruise control has been added, and it works properly using a controller on the turn signal stalk, making this Buick nice to drive. It is also equipped with factory A/C, which seems to work, although the hoses and system activate and get cold but it doesn?t blow cold air from the vents for some reason. There?s also a modern Kenwood entertainment unit in the dash, which feeds new speakers on the rear package shelf. Front and rear seat belts are a good idea, and the big trunk is correctly outfitted with a vinyl mat and spare tire cover.
The engine is a 400 cubic inch V8, the largest permitted under GM?s rules in 1968. The stamping on the front of the block matches the car?s VIN, strongly suggesting that this is the car?s original engine, and it runs great. The aforementioned Ram Air hood and air cleaner dominate the engine bay, and underneath you?ll find an aluminum intake and 4-barrel carburetor. There are also custom Buick valve covers, an HEI distributor, a new water pump, and lots of signs of recent maintenance. It starts and runs great, and with what feels like an upgraded camshaft inside, it has a muscular idle. The TH400 3-speed automatic was rebuilt with a shift kit, and there are 4.10 gears in the 10-bolt rear so it?s seriously punchy around town. Long-tube headers feed a 3-inch exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers, and there are fat sway bars at both ends. We don?t believe the body has ever been off the frame, but this is a warm climate car that has never seen winter weather, so floors and trunk are in great shape. Best of all, it rides like a Buick, so it feels relaxing rather than high-strung on the road. 15-inch Buick road wheels are the right look, and they carry brand new 225/70/14 BFGoodrich T/A radials all around.
This Buick represents a whole lot of muscle for the money. Buick engines are legendary for their torque production, and with a few choice modifications, this car is seriously quick on the street. But it also has Buick comfort, including the quiet interior and nice options. All together it makes for a car that?s easy to live with, fun to drive, and smart to own. Call today!
Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.