Simply Stunning: 1972 Buick Gran Sport 455 Stage 1

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Occasionally, classics appear on our desks at Barn Finds that almost defy description. Such is the case with this 1972 Buick Gran Sport 455 Stage 1. The word “stunning” springs to mind, although even that doesn’t do it justice. There seems to be nothing about this Buick that deserves criticism, and I can see precisely why it grabbed the attention of Barn Finder Curvette. The seller has listed the Gran Sport here on eBay in Bradenton, Florida. They set their price at $59,997, and it appears they are pretty firm on that figure.

There is so much to unpack with this Gran Sport that it is almost impossible to know where to start. The combination of rich Vintage Red paint and the contrasting White vinyl top creates a stunning visual impact. The seeming lack of cosmetic imperfections heightens this impression, though the Cowl Tag shows a paint code of 48, suggesting this classic started life wearing Hunter Green. The paint looks deep enough to walk into, cloaking laser-straight panels, while the vinyl looks flawless. The seller supplies an excellent image gallery, confirming that this Buick is as solid as the day it rolled off the lot. The floors are as clean as a whistle, and there are no issues with the lower extremities. The trim and glass are as impressive as the paint, and the Magnum 500 wheels perfectly suit this muscle car. A reflection of this car’s overall condition is the seller’s willingness to negotiate in-person inspections. That suggests that they are confident that this gem is all they claim it to be.

Buick introduced the Gran Sport 455 in 1970 and, as the model designation suggests, it is powered by a 455ci V8. As the Stage 1 variant, it sends 270hp and 390 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed TH-400 automatic transmission. Power-assisted steering and front disc brakes should provide an effortless driving experience. Although engine power was beginning to drop at this time due to tighter emission regulations, several contemporary road tests produced sub-15-second ¼-mile ETs, confirming that the GS 455 was a genuine muscle car at a time when the market for such vehicles was rapidly shrinking. The seller doesn’t confirm whether this classic is numbers-matching, although that is the impression provided in their listing. We are flying blind on its mechanical condition, but I see nothing to suggest the news will be anything but positive.

The first owner chose to match the Buick’s White vinyl top with an interior trimmed in the same shade. I don’t know whether it is original, but the condition is mighty impressive. There are no dirty marks or evidence of yellowing, and UV rays haven’t exacted a toll on any surfaces. It doesn’t merely look good, because it is impressively equipped. Apart from obvious features like bucket seats and a console, the buyer receives air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, a tilt wheel, a rear defogger, a Rally gauge cluster with a factory tachometer, an AM/FM radio, and a factory 8-track player.

This 1972 Buick Gran Sport 455 Stage 1 undeniably possesses the “wow” factor and is guaranteed to draw crowds on the street or at a Cars & Coffee. Its overall presentation would allow it to hold its own on the show circuit, a prospect that some potential buyers may find irresistible. The seller’s price isn’t peanuts, sitting at the top end of the market. However, the condition and list of factory options make the price realistic, especially considering the seller’s willingness to field in-person inspections. That suggests they have total confidence in this classic. Do you share that feeling?

Comments

  1. Stan StanMember

    Wow, nice 72′ 🏁

    Like 2
  2. Poncho72 Poncho72Member

    I’m not a huge fan of white interiors, otherwise this is a dream car for me. Stunning is an appropriate choice of words.

    Like 2
  3. Moparman MoparmanMember

    “Wouldn’t you really rather have a Buick?” This one, YES!! GLWTA!! :-)

    Like 2
  4. Howard A Howard AMember

    If I were a rich man, diddle diddle diddle dee,,this would be on a transporter on its way to SoCal. My SIL in L.A. has expressed interest in a vintage muscle car, I said a ’72 GS 455, son, this is it! Let’s see now,( counting change), dang, only $59grand short,,,have to settle for the “Rusty Justy”, kid, I’m very, very, sorry.
    1972, graduated HS, we were up to our poopiks in high performance. There was a segment of us, that didn’t want, or need the wheelstanding glitz of a 454 Chevelle or 428 CJ, or a G-T-Oh, but wanted a loud pedal none the less, this was the car. For a more sophisticated person, a “Gentlemans Hot Rod” indeed, ladies too. In fact, I’d wager more women bought these cars than men. No matter, sophisticated or not, it still did the 1/4 mile in 13.99@91 mph, and as an added bonus, got a nod from the future father in law, the 454 Chevelle, not so much. Nice car.

    Like 2
  5. Driveinstile DriveinstileMember

    Absolutely stunning Buick!!! I’m wondering about the why the color change? But anyways, this shade of burgundy looks great with the white interior, and it looks pike it was done to an absolute top standard. Whoever restored this one, did a top notch job. And that 455? Unfortunately, I’m with Howard….. I’m about 59 Grand short right now….

    Like 0
  6. Dave

    Vintage Red was a color exclusive to the Riviera in 1972.

    Like 0
  7. Scott A Young

    The Ebay listing says it is a ‘tribute’ car but does not explain.

    Like 0

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