All Original: 1968 Buick GS 400 Convertible

Some enthusiasts refuse to compromise, accepting nothing but total originality in any classic. If you share those sentiments, you will probably like this 1968 Buick GS 400 Convertible. The seller has been its custodian since 2000, protecting this survivor from the elements and other factors that might take a toll on its body or drivetrain. The Buick is ready for summer fun, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting it listed here on eBay in Diamondhead, Mississippi. A solitary bid of $18,000 is below the reserve, but there is a BIN option of $23,000 for those viewing this GS 400 as a must-have classic.

The 1968 model year was a transitional one for Buick’s GS 400, as the company introduced a Convertible variant to complement the Hardtop. The drop-top was the most expensive version, explaining that while 10,743 buyers ordered a Hardtop, a mere 2,454 splashed the extra cash for the Convertible. This GS 400 is one of those cars, with the seller confirming it wears its original Scarlet Red paint. They purchased the car in 2000 and have kept it stored in a climate-controlled environment, which has kept rust and paint deterioration at bay. The contrasting Black power top exhibits stretching and a small hole, and whether the buyer replaces it will depend on their willingness to compromise the vehicle’s originality. The paint shines impressively for its age, the panels are straight, and the trim and glass are in good condition. So far, this Buick looks like a winner.

As the model designation suggests, lifting this Buick’s hood reveals a 400ci V8. This car also features a three-speed Turbo 400 automatic transmission, with 2,024 GS 400 Convertible buyers selecting the self-shifter in 1968. Unsurprisingly in a car of this caliber, the GS also scored power assistance for the steering and brakes. That year’s Sales Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 340hp and 440 ft/lbs, guaranteeing impressive performance from a car tipping the scales at approximately 3,720 lbs. The seller confirms that this Buick is numbers-matching and that it has only one minor mechanical issue. The starter occasionally screeches when engaging, which could be a sign of gear wear. It may be a prime candidate for a rebuild, allowing the car to retain its original unit. Otherwise, the GS 400 runs and drives well, and is ready for action with its new owner behind the wheel.

It would be fair to expect any car marketed by its creator as a high-performance Grand Tourer to be loaded with luxury touches, and this Buick doesn’t disappoint. It features air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, a Deluxe tilt wheel, and an AM/FM stereo radio. The car’s interior, trimmed in Black vinyl, is very tidy. The seller identifies a small tear in the driver’s seat as the only upholstery flaw. Functionally, the fan switch requires attention. It is fair to say that while this interior isn’t perfect, it passes muster for a survivor-grade classic with fifty-eight years of active service under its belt.

This 1968 Buick GS 400 Convertible isn’t perfect, but it deserves respect as a genuine survivor. Its needs are few, and with those addressed, the winning bidder could continue preserving it as the seller has for the past twenty-six years. It would form the perfect foundation for a faithful restoration, and some readers may be tempted to return the Convertible to a factory-fresh state. Barn Finds was founded on the motto that they’re only original once, and I agree with that sentiment. Therefore, I would address this Buick’s few faults and keep the car as-is. Do you agree?