“Rare” is a relative term in the classic world, with some cars more deserving of that label than others. Take this 1968 Buick Skylark GS 400 Convertible as a prime example. The drop-top variant accounted for approximately 18% of total GS 400 production that year, and the Special Order paint on this Buick may make it a unique vehicle. The seller describes its presentation as “show standard” following a meticulous restoration, ready to provide a new owner with immediate motoring pleasure. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the GS 400 listed here on eBay in Lakeland, Florida. The seller set their auction to open at $30,000, but has received no bids at the time of writing.

Buick introduced the Gran Sport variant to its Skylark range in 1965. The company’s position within the General Motors hierarchy meant that regardless of which variant buyers chose, they received GM’s ultimate blend of luxury and performance. This 1968 Buick GS 400 Convertible makes a stunning first impression following a meticulous show-quality restoration. The attention to detail is impressive, making it virtually impossible to identify flaws or imperfections. The seller states that the paint shade is a Special Order, and although the original Build Sheet is included, it isn’t clear enough in the supplied images to potentially confirm the code. The panels are laser-straight, and rust isn’t an issue. The Black power top fits as tight as a drum, and like the rest of the exterior, appears to be in as-new condition. The trim looks exceptional, and the sports wheels add the ideal finishing touch.

As the model designation suggests, this Buick is powered by a 400ci V8. The first owner paired the motor with a three-speed TH400 automatic transmission, power-assisted steering, and power brakes. Buick quoted power and torque figures of 340hp and 440 ft/lbs in its sales literature, although it is widely believed that these figures were considerably understated. While performance figures fell short of those delivered by hardcore muscle cars, this GS wouldn’t cause its owner embarrassment in a “Traffic Light Grand Prix.” The seller confirms that the vehicle’s restoration included a documented rebuild for the numbers-matching engine. Unsurprisingly, the Convertible is in excellent mechanical health and is a turnkey proposition.

We only need to examine the interior to reveal the luxury leanings of this muscle car. It features bucket seats, a console, a Hurst shifter for the transmission, a sports wheel, and a pushbutton AM radio. That may not sound impressive by modern standards, but it was considered pretty respectable in 1968. This classic’s interior presentation is all that you might expect considering the car’s recent history. The Black vinyl is spotless, with the same true of the matching carpet and the dash. There is no wear, no aftermarket additions, and nothing to prevent the new owner from driving this anywhere with the top down and their head held high.

Buick produced 13,197 examples of the GS 400 in 1968, but only 2,454 of those were the Convertible variant. It is also a drop in the ocean when you consider that total Skylark sales for the model year hit 227,460. The original owner’s decision to select a Special Order paint shade may make this car unique, further enhancing its desirability. It hasn’t received any bids, although it is worth noting that the auction is only in its early stages. I expect the situation to change, but how much would you be prepared to pay for this classic?