Cars that stay with the same family from new always seem to have a different kind of presence, and this 1968 Buick GS 400—now offered here on eBay—is that kind of car. The seller states it has been in their family since day one, and that alone makes it a rare opportunity. Showing 104,000 miles, the GS400 is described as running smoothly, with updated drivetrain components and a mellow exhaust to let the big 400-ci V8 speak in its own way. According to the listing, it has always been treated as an original, honest driver rather than a modified showpiece. Thanks for the tip, Curvette!
The seller notes that the car was repainted in its correct color roughly 20 years ago using lacquer. A half-gallon of DuPont lacquer in the proper color comes with the sale, should the next owner want to freshen anything in the future. The original black vinyl top remains in place, though it’s beginning to show wear with age. Importantly, the seller states there’s no rust, which is always a major point of interest for these cars. A small damaged spot is mentioned on the front right fender, but the description makes clear it’s nothing major.
Inside, the GS400 still carries its factory AM radio, and new original-style carpet has been installed. The main interior flaw noted is the driver’s door armrest, which needs repair or replacement due to a separated retaining screw. The car does not have air conditioning, but the seller points out that the “wing windows” did their job just fine. This GS also comes with its original exhaust brackets and a pair of rear fender skirts already painted to match the exterior.
Mechanically, the car has an original chrome air cleaner cover, along with a new starter, new fuel pump, and updated belts and hoses. The seller mentions a slight lifter noise on cold starts that goes away quickly, and that the car has always been run on premium fuel. They strongly recommend an in-person inspection, which is always good advice for any vintage vehicle.
Overall, this GS400 is presented as an original, well-loved family car with honest aging and long-term care behind it. For someone who wants a strong foundation without losing the vintage personality of a late-’60s Buick, this seems like a solid place to start.
Would you repaint this GS 400 or preserve its older lacquer finish as part of its story?
Wow, for starters, for a lacquer paint job its held up well, with a deep shine. It’s really a beautiful car. You had me thinking of my Dad. He swore by lacquer. He insisted it was easy to work with and to blend in. ( he did his own body work). I still remember my brother restoring his ’66 GTO in the very early 80’s. I can’t remember how many coats of hand rubbed lacquer went on that thing, but it had an incredible depth to it. And I remember the smell of it ( I liked it Mom hated it ) Hope this Buick gets a good new caretaker.
I always liked the smell of acrylic lacquer, as well. It had a sweet, banana-like smell to it.
Wow. Tugs at my heartstrings. Call me a purist. I am proud of it. I hope this beauty gets a Buick loving owner and it remains all stock Buick. When GM built real automobiles
That’s the cleanest engine bay I’ve ever seen on an unrestored car of this vintage…
The engine compartment has been gone over, it is not original. You can see that someone did not mask off parts, e.g. windshield wiper motor and pump assy, and the inner fenders are sprayed black instead of being body color, heater cover is the same sheen as firewall, etc.
Beat me to it. That is not a survivor engine bay. There is even red overspray on the exhaust manifolds. I’m not saying it’s not a nice worthy car but I would definitely inspect to verify the “survivor” claim.
The picture of the damage of the right front fender on the leading edge looks like there is a thick coat of Bondo. For $29,500 I’d want to know if “no rust” means currently no rust showing or no rust ever. It looks nice, but it’s priced close to perfection, potential buyers would be wise to check it out in person rather than rely on pictures taken in a poorly lit garage.
Steve R
this been eBay for a while. nice looking GS. seldom see color as well. price seems a bit high but, in the ballpark. 68-69 either you like them or you don’t. kind of makes them a bit hard to sell IMO.
Grey has been done to death but on this car it’s like I’m seeing it for the first time. Wow. Probably priced too high, but I say that about everything.