The LeSabre nameplate arrived at Buick in 1959 and remained a staple through 2005. It was the starting point if you were looking for a full-size model and would be a best-selling model through much of its 46 years. The seller has a 4-door hardtop from 1970 that comes with a rebuilt 455 cubic-inch V8 and some other newer parts, but it could use a bit of cosmetic TLC. Located in Parker, Colorado, this snowbird is available here on craigslist for $7,000. Another fine tip brought to us by Mike F.!
Third-generation LeSabres were on the assembly line from 1965 to 1970 (B-body platform shared with other GM divisions). Though styling was refreshed in 1969, the LeSabre got more tweaking in 1970, and versions of the LeSabre 4-door hardtop were offered. That included the base 45239 model that saw 14,800 copies, the Custom iteration at 43.800 units, and finally the Custom 455 at a smaller 6,500 versions. We assume the seller’s car fits into the latter category.
As the story goes, this car was sold new, not far from where it resides today. The odometer reads 16,000, but we’re betting it has turned over. We assume the car is numbers matching, and the 455 was treated to a rebuild eight years ago. New brakes were added along with the 4-barrel carburetor and exhaust pipes. Electronic ignition was added, yet the seller retains the original if you prefer old school.
The seller says the black paint was redone last year and wears a flat or satin finish, not typical of the day. The interior needs some work, particularly the upholstery on the front seat. The car has factory A/C (does it work?) as well as power-assisted windows, locks, and seats. No trades on this one, so bring cash.
The significance here is the 455. First year Buick 455’s had 350 HP and bone crushing torque. The two door 1970 version was a pretty brute. This four door perhaps has the right engine for a new project, but not much else.
Back seat looks great
You missed the top of the seat back of the seat, Ken.
There was also a LeSabre 400 model which, had a 350 ci 280 hp 4bbl, which required premium fuel, a Super Turbine 400 transmission & dual exhaust. The “400” emblem was under “LeSabre” on the rear quarter panels.
A loaded LeSabre for its time.
If I had this, reup the seats, get the mechanicals right (a/c) and get rid of the graphic styled paint job. Eww!
Nicely optioned car, but looks silly in flat black, and something has to be done with that front seat. I’d hate to see it bought for its engine and tranny, like so many were, but few people want a 4 door.
It’s way too expensive to be used as a drivetrain donor, even at less a fraction of the price. The satin black does the car no favors, like you said, the options are nice, but this car lives in the segment of the market that competes on price rather than passion. It doesn’t hold up well in that aspect anywhere near its asking price, the seller fell into the common trap of thinking rarely seen equals valuable.
Steve R
Put a TKO 6 in this lovely lady and she would become my dream girl. Wedding bells would quickly follow. 🥰
Didn’t think it was a factory 455 setup, so thank you very much for that interesting link Dixon.. 👍
Another trip down memory lane! SORT of. 😉 In 77, on my first trip to LA, I was chauffeured by a friend in his gold 69 or 70 Wildcat convertible, top down through Beverly Hills (saw Kirkebee estate ( exteriors for Beverly Hillbillies) ) Lucy, Jack Benny and many others. Santa Monica Beach ⛱, Disneyland 🎆. My friend is unfortunately gone, but memories of him, those golden times, and that Wildcat cruising LA are some of the best! Yes, memories DO light the corners of what’s LEFT of my mind! 😊 Memories are one of a very few things they can’t take away ✨ So make some Today!
A nice 4 door cruiser with a lot of torque and power. Just redo the seats and headliner.
Beautiful looking car. I haven’t seen a 1970 Buick LeSabre in who knows how long. I love the front end appearance of the car.
What the heck was that owner eating that caused that kind of damage to the seats???
(sorry, first thing I thought of when I saw those seats (LOL!)).
Right? The seats look like someone took a knife to them.
Looks like someone took Le Sabre to the seats. 😲 Sure tears me up.
He’s baaaaaaack. (palm to temple)
How you doing, buddy?
Educated guess would be dog. I didn’t look at top of the door panels another prone areas for damage.
The headliner is missing also.
2 ways to go here but I have seen full size Buicks at the drag strip ! Of course a lighter weight donor skylark or such you would have something but the price is too much like 4 grand in my book
If only more pictures were posted of the car. There’s no such thing as too many pictures. Except for the front seat which needs either re-upholstered or replaced, the car looks great.