Sleeper Survivor: 1962 Buick Wildcat

This 1962 Buick Wildcat two-door hardtop proves that desirable old cars in excellent condition are still available for reasonable dollars. This Buick isn’t flashy, mostly because of its muted exterior hues, but take a closer look, and its stellar condition will not disappoint. Tony P. found this tiger of a coupe soaking up some sun in St. Louis, Missouri, and it’s listed here on craigslist for $18,500.

Introduced in 1962, the Wildcat started as a high-performance Invicta edition before becoming a standalone model in ’63. Buick’s publicity material at the time proclaimed, “Buick has unleashed a Wildcat…the new full-size, sports-style car.” Initially available only as a two-door hardtop, the Wildcat’s Invicta basis was parked above the LeSabre and below the Electra 225. These are rare cars! Autoevolution.com claims that just 2,000 Wildcats were assembled in this inaugural year, and their identity runs much deeper than the badge. “Rust-free Nevada-born” is how the seller describes this Wildcat, and that’s about it – the listing is super light on details. While Fawn Mist Metallic is not an exciting color for a sporting ride like this Wildcat, the finish appears to be in excellent condition. It doesn’t say whether it’s the original paint, but either way, it shows beautifully. The contrasting white top works perfectly with the fawn-hued body and helps to lighten the presentation a bit. The Wildcat’s taillights are worth noting; Buick used Electra 225 units instead of the standard Invicta pieces.

A Wildcat meant bucket seats and a center console sporting a tachometer, and that’s what we have here. The vinyl upholstery and carpet are as clean as a whistle and show like new, with the minor exception of the top edge of the driver’s side door panel. Considering this car’s 90K miles of experience and its almost Medicare-eligible age, I have to believe the environment is a redo, but nothing is said on that front. The dash and instrument panel are what set Buick apart from other lesser GM marques – combined, they’re a work of restrained art. Not surprising, this is a non A/C equipped car.

The Wildcat’s standout feature was its standard-equipment 325 gross HP, 401 CI “Wildcat 445” V8 engine. Maybe not so impressive-sounding today, this was a big deal in ’62. The sole available transmission was the “Turbine Drive” automatic, and that’s what’s connected to the big nailhead V8. Other Wildcat mechanical components include finned aluminum brake drums and heavy-duty suspension to provide what Buick advertised as “Sports-Car Handling.” Unfortunately, the listing is silent regarding running and driving characteristics.

This is a rare Buick! It’s in magnificent condition, and presents itself in a tasteful, understated manner. When I compare this car to anything made by GM’s near-luxury division today, I have to shake my head. There really is no comparison to make. Buick has become nothing more than a modern afterthought of what it once was. But there was a time when potential auto buyers would do their comparison shopping  and say, “Yes, I really would rather have a Buick.” Those days are gone and aren’t going to return, but if you are of that thought, here’s your chance to relive that time with this beautiful 1962 Wildcat. OK, that’s all I got.