The seller accepted this 1962 Buick Electra 225 Convertible as a trade-in on a recent sale, but isn’t in a position to treat it to the TLC it deserves. It is an exceptionally solid classic featuring what he believes is its original paint. With only minor rust and a Nailhead V8 under the hood, it appears to be a promising project candidate. You will find the Buick listed here on eBay in Eagle, Wisconsin. Bidding sits below the reserve at a very modest $510, although there is a BIN option of $7,200 for those wishing to bypass the auction process.
Buick introduced its Second Generation Electra range for the 1961 model year, with production continuing until 1964. This Electra 225 Convertible left the factory in 1962, ordered by its first owner in Regal Black. Time has taken a toll on the exterior, but it isn’t as bad as first impressions might suggest. The original paint looks tired and cracked, and stripping the exterior to bare metal would be the best bet for achieving a high-end result. The contrasting White power top looks surprisingly tight, although the fact that the window has “let go” on one corner means that the buyer may choose to replace it. The panels sport only minor bumps and bruises, but the best news could be this car’s apparent lack of significant rust. The seller identifies an area in the driver’s side lower rear quarter panel requiring attention. Otherwise, it appears that this Buick is rock-solid. It is missing a few small badges, and some trim pieces may need restoration. The glass is in good condition, and the original steel wheels are wrapped in new tires and feature their factory hubcaps.
Buick quoted power and torque figures of 325hp and 445 ft/lbs for the 401ci “Nailhead” V8 hiding under the hood of this Electra. The car also features a two-speed “Turbine Drive” automatic transmission, as well as power-assisted steering and brakes. The V8 provided respectable performance when this classic was new, although with a curb weight exceeding 4,500 lbs, the Electra is more of a cruiser than a bitumen burner. The seller states that this classic starts and runs, and it appears that its numbers-matching drivetrain is in good health. The brakes require work, but the components needed to address their shortcomings are included.
The interior equipment demonstrates the luxury leanings of this Buick. The first owner equipped it with air conditioning, power windows, a power front seat, a tissue dispenser, and an AM/FM radio, making life on the road quite comfortable in this car’s prime. The interior is serviceable in its current form, but would undoubtedly benefit from restoration to present at its best. Finding complete trim kits may be a challenge. However, almost everything required to restore the interior of this Buick to its former glory is available if the buyer takes the time to search online.
Addressing the only identified rust in this 1962 Buick Electra 225 Convertible should be relatively easy and inexpensive. The buyer faces other tasks before this classic presents at its best, but none of the remaining issues appear insurmountable. Those wishing to be hands-on will reap the rewards when they wheel this Buick out of their garage, because it can’t help but turn heads. A high-end restoration should also produce a vehicle with a potential value well in excess of $30,000, making the BIN figure appear quite competitive. If you are seeking a productive way to occupy the winter months, returning this Electra to its former glory could be the ideal project.
Must be in a dark garage. I see more rust on passenger side all around rear wheel ??? Like to see pics of underside on a hoist
Early AM/FM! nice option. Won’t see another at cars n’ coffee.
I can’t tell from any of the pictures I can see on eBay if the radio is actually an AM-FM, but if it does have an AM-FM, it is not original to the car. First AM-FM Buick offered was in 1964 (which can be easily put into a 1963 and will look “factory”). It could be a Wonderbar, which has a bar at the top that looks similar to the AM-FM slider on some of the earlier radios.
“Rock solid” is not exactly the description I would use, Adam. Not-as-bad-as-it-could-be-from-Wisconsin is a more apt description. There’s clear bondo on both rear quarters. The inner rocker picture shows rust holes. There may be a rust hole in the frame member by that rocker. The trunk shows rust and one of the underside floor panel shows a rust hole. That’s a lot of rust remediation for a potential of $30K and, while it’s a Buick convertible and likely a nice cruiser on the highway, the asking price is out of line for what it needs. It’s a driver for $3-5K. A labor of love with no expectation of making money is the best option. Drive and remediate as needed. IMO of course.
Appears to be leather seating.
The seller admits that rust is an issue, so tread carefully. I would insist on an in-person inspection before bidding, as the pictures shown don’t tell the whole story. If the dreaded tin worm has been at work, then the BIN price of $7500 may be wildly optimistic. Again, for someone with the time, talent, tools and money, this could be a worthy project, but it could also become a money pit very quickly.
she’s neat but going to need some money. would nice looking done but could end upside down real fast if you’re not careful
I do believe this is one of the years with the cool mirrored speedometer that you could adjust for the best viewing angle. I nearly bought a sedan of either this year or 1961.
Nope. 1960 and 1961 only. 1962 was a “regular” speedometer.
Bluto (John Belushi) approved! “Senator and Mrs. John Blutarsky,” from ANIMAL HOUSE. Yeah, yeah, in the movie it was a 1961 Electra convertible, but it is the same vibe – Cruising!