Package Deal: Pair of Late 1970s Buick Sedans

The LeSabre became Buick’s “everyman” car in 1959 and led the GM division’s sales for many years. The cars got out of hand size-wise in the mid-1970s, so they were downsized in 1977 without losing any passenger or luggage space. The seller has a pair of these cruisers available here on craigslist as a package deal, however one of them appears to be the more upscale Electra. One seems to be a solid runner, while the other only goes in reverse. From 1977 and 1979, this duo is available in Missoula, Montana, and here on craigslist for $3,900. Kudos to “Curvette” for another tip!

GM got caught with some gas guzzlers in the mid-1970s when the OPEC oil embargo drove buyers to more fuel-efficient automobiles. The company was smart enough to quickly adapt and shrunk its full-size machines in 1977, then took the knife to the mid-sizes in 1978. Less weight meant smaller engines could get the same job done, so a 403 cubic inch V8 replaced the 455 in many instances. Even V6s were used, but they were rather lethargic in cars like the LeSabre.

Somehow the seller has accumulated a pair of these late 1970s Buicks, referring to them as “His & Hers” cars, though we’re not sure which should be called which. One is a 1977 LeSabre 2-door coupe, thought to be rare at 8,455 copies made. We’re told it starts right up with a jump-start, but the only direction it will go is in reverse, which could be a symptom of low fluid or worse. But at $1,950 ($3,900 / 2), could you do a transmission rebuild?

The second car, a 1979 Electra the seller says is also a LeSabre 4-door sedan, gets more fanfare and photos. It looks like a well-used vehicle that’s 47 years old, but we’re told it runs and drives great. While they’re quite comfy, the front bench seat seems to have the velour material starting to flake off. So, it would be suitable as a daily driver. Do you see this pair of Buicks in your future?