Some enthusiasts state that while they always admire perfection, they prefer classics parked in their garage to have a few flaws. I initially struggled to understand this philosophy, but I get where those people are coming from. Owners of pristine vehicles sometimes fear that a weekend outing may result in chips or other marks that mar otherwise perfect paint. However, when a car is already flawed, such incidents aren’t as traumatic. That brings us to this 1971 Buick Skylark. The photos look pretty stunning, but the seller states that close inspection will reveal cosmetic imperfections. The Buick has a heavily documented history, verifying the odometer reading of 93,000 miles. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Skylark listed here on Craigslist in Newberg, Oregon. You could drive it home after handing the seller $22,000, although they will consider offers.
Buick released its Third Generation Skylark range in 1968, with cars remaining on sale until 1972. The badge continued to use what was essentially the same platform as its predecessor. However, the panels were new, and the company offered two wheelbases, with two-door variants rolling on the shorter of the pair. Buick performed a mid-life update in 1970, and made only minor tweaks for 1971. This Sport Coupe rolled off the line that year, finished in Cortez Gold. It is an interesting shade, changing dramatically, depending on the prevailing light. The seller states that the paint isn’t perfect, but it still looks mighty nice in the listing images. Any flaws are too minor to notice, suggesting that the Skylark’s presentation is consistent with a survivor-grade vehicle. The panels are straight, and none of the photos suggest that rust could be a problem. The trim is excellent, and the tinted glass is clear. Aftermarket wheels are a minefield, with some suiting a particular vehicle better than others. This Skylark ticks the right box for me, although some readers would disagree. They will contend that there is something out there more appropriate, or feel that returning the exterior to its factory form is the best bet. It is a matter of personal taste, which is what makes the classic world so fascinating.
Interiors often provide an accurate guide to the life a classic has led. Abuse and neglect reveal themselves in torn upholstery, worn and stained carpet, and broken plastic. This Skylark has avoided those pitfalls, with a couple of wheel cracks the most obvious problem. The Brown vinyl upholstery looks astonishing for its age. The front seat is free from wear, and I suspect that the back seat has hardly seen any action. The carpet is exceptional, with the factory rubber mats offering effective protection. Some readers may feel that the seller performed a retrim, but with nothing mentioned in the listing text, I am assessing it as a survivor-grade vehicle. However, if the interior is restored, the presentation justifies the expense. The gauges feature clear lenses, the pad is crack-free, and the only aftermarket addition is an under-dash Bluetooth stereo. The factory radio is intact, and the seller states that the air conditioning blows ice-cold.
There are few mechanical configurations more bulletproof and more relaxed to drive than the one hidden beneath this Skylark’s skin. The buyer receives a 350ci V8, a three-speed Hydramatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The V8 produced a factory-claimed 230hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque when the car was shiny and new. The seller states that the sale includes a significant collection of paperwork, documenting the Skylark’s history. The odometer reading is verified, with the seller stating that the Buick runs and drives extremely well. That could allow the buyer to fly in and drive this classic home.
This Buick Skylark isn’t perfect, but its odometer reading is lower than we would typically expect from any classic leaving the line in 1971. The paint shines impressively, and the interior looks exceptional. Factor the V8 into the equation, and this Buick ticks plenty of the right boxes for potential buyers. That brings us to the question of the price, and I would typically speculate at this point. However, this is your chance to have your say. Is $22,000 realistic for a car of this caliber, or do you think that negotiating will be the key to success?
This is mighty nice. I bought a 1970 Skylark in 1978 for $250; had it two months, had just finished installing a new muffler and new tires, and an LTD broadsided me and totaled it. Wish this one was closer. I’d say the price is a little high, given it isn’t pristine…. (sure is an increase over what I paid in ’78!). But, boy, I’d like to have another one. I always thought these were among the sharpest cars Buick ever put out.
When they restyled these in 1970, they got rid of the downward sweeping side crease, which gave it a unique distinctive look I liked. These are still attractive though a little Pontiac-ish. The car here appears clean and well-maintained, but $22k worth? It’s a bit high but they say they’ll talk turkey.
This is a very nice clean Buick here much better than the 30k Charger listed here today. This one checks off all the right boxes for me since I like this era of GM cars since I have a 1971 Chevelle. Nice clean interior with original radio and working A/C. Would be nice to see undercarriage pictures and get it for 20K.