The prime annual season for operating a convertible in many parts of the country may be drawing to a close soon, but this 1964 Buick Skylark droptop appears solid enough that it could potentially be ready to enjoy by next spring, if not before. With more than 72,000 Skylarks produced this year, just over 10,000 were ragtops, so while not exceedingly rare, they’re not exactly commonplace these days either. This one here on eBay is described as remarkably complete, and it does appear to be a promising project for Buick fans. This Skylark is currently located in Macomb, Michigan, with the lone bid of $3,500 not enough to lift the reserve. However, if you’re eager to get started with the restoration, it can be purchased immediately for the buy-it-now price of $6,500.
The seller doesn’t mention how long he’s owned the Skylark, but before this car ended up in Michigan, California was its home, and much of the sheet metal is said to remain solid. Although the body isn’t showing any obvious signs of corrosion, there’s also no information on whether any of the panels have had any prior repairs. According to the trim tag, this Buick was originally white, which sounds like a good color to move forward with when it comes time for some new paint. However, choosing a different shade more to the next owner’s liking isn’t a bad idea either.
One of the engine possibilities for the Skylark in ’64 was a 300 cubic-inch V8, and while the one in the bay isn’t positively specified as the factory component, it is confirmed as date-correct and has the aluminum heads present. It’s also said to have been rebuilt, but never run. Also included is a stainless steel exhaust system, along with fresh mufflers and correct exhaust manifolds. Already in place is a Super Turbine transmission, an automatic with two forward gears, but there’s no word on whether it’s also gotten a recent overhaul.
A condition of fair has been assigned for the interior, which seems like a reasonable assessment here. However, several of the missing parts are included, such as the instrument panel plus the front and rear panels. The top canvas is completely gone, and with no photo provided of the rails, it’s unknown if these will be salvageable. Even with the work that will be needed here, this one seems like a fun and worthwhile project, and I wouldn’t be surprised if somebody taps the buy-it-now button before this auction runs its course. Is this 1964 Buick Skylark convertible one you’d be interested in restoring?
Yo, cousin Vinny
It’s the eye of the beholder with these cars. I’ve alway liked them although my preference goes to the 66 model year. I was in the army overseas in 66 when I saw a full page color ad for a bright yellow Skylark and fell in love in an instant. The ad emphasized the fact of two 4 speed manual transmissions available, wide ratio or close ratio and of course V8 power.
At 19 years old I nearly re-upped to get the money. Well those days are long gone but still the dream lingers on in this old man’s mind.
God Bless America
My wife had a ’63 model in red with a white top. When we let it go I told her I would replace it for her one day. This one has potential. She is my ex-wife now, so I will let her know about it and she can buy it herself.
This vehicle has potential! The price seems ok and there are a lot of pictures and a lot of info given!! This would make a nice weekend cruiser!
Ended at $3,650.
Reserve Not Met.