Many traditional Convertibles force owners to compromise due to their relatively compact dimensions. However, full-size models like the 1970 Buick LeSabre offer enough space for a growing family wishing to indulge in a wind-in-the-hair motoring experience. This classic recently emerged from twenty years in storage and is a two-owner survivor with 96,000 miles on the clock. It runs and drives well, leaving the new owner able to fly in and drive home behind the wheel. The LeSabre is listed here on Craigslist in Niagara Falls, New York. The seller set a price of $14,500 OBO for this drop-top classic. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder PRA4SNW for spotting this excellent find.
Buick released its Third Generation LeSabre for the 1965 model year, with the last cars gracing showrooms until 1970. Our feature Convertible was ordered by its first owner in the final production year, and they chose attractive Stratomist Blue to grace its panels. The vehicle presents well, with a healthy paint shine and a White power top that offers a classy contrast. The seller’s information is slightly limited, but there are no glaring flaws in the panels or paint. The top fits as tight as a drum. There are no rips or tears, and it appears the mechanism functions as it should. Rust can cause concern, but this classic looks remarkably clean. No problems are evident in the supplied shots, and none are mentioned in the listing. The trim is in good order for a survivor, and the glass looks crystal clear.
The limited information supplied by the seller extends to this LeSabre’s drivetrain combination. Buick offered buyers three versions of the 350ci V8 in 1970, but it is unclear which occupies this classic’s engine bay. Power and torque could range between 260hp and 360 ft/lbs to 315hp and 410 ft/lbs. Shifting duties fall to a three-speed automatic transmission, and while it isn’t mentioned, I would expect a vehicle of this caliber to feature power steering. Twenty years in hiding hasn’t taken a toll on this Buick. The seller states it runs and drives well, suggesting it is a turnkey proposition. They quote an odometer reading of 96,000 genuine miles, but like so much about this gentle giant, there is no mention of verifying evidence.
The LeSabre’s interior presentation could be considered above average for a driver-grade classic. Its Blue vinyl upholstered surfaces are free from significant visible issues, with only a small tear in the driver’s seat base worth immediate attention. An upholsterer should be able to blind patch this, and doing so before it has a chance to spread would be wise. I would investigate that option first because a replacement cover will lighten the new owner’s bank account by nearly $600. The dash is good, although the sun-fading on the pad is noticeable. It hasn’t split, meaning throwing on a cover to protect it from further deterioration would be the most cost-effective solution. However, conducting an online search could also be worthwhile because I located an extremely nice original pad for under $100. Sometimes patience can reap rewards, which might be the case here. It is unclear whether the LeSabre features air conditioning. However, who needs it when occupants can enjoy what Mother Nature provides for free by lowering the top?
This 1970 Buick LeSabre seems to offer a lot to potential buyers. If it is as structurally sound as the images suggest, it has no pressing needs. The decades of hibernation seem to have done no harm, and it is the type of classic that the new owner could fly in and drive home. It would be perfect for an enthusiast with a growing family because the back seat offers enough legroom to accommodate teenagers undergoing the almost inevitable growth spurt. It could still be considered relatively affordable, with the seller’s price looking competitive in the current market. Of course, going in with a respectful offer is worth a shot because today could be the prospective buyer’s lucky day. The Convertible has only been on the market a few days, but I won’t be surprised if it finds a new home fairly quickly. Will you?
If it was any closer I’d be all over it. Don’t need it. Probably don’t have the room for it. But to me, in 1970, Buick could do no wrong…
Never understood why vinyl seats in a convertible. Am I missing something there?
For one thing vinyl is so cheap looking and these cars that were upscale for the day all had it including Riviera, Toronado, Electra and Ninety Eight. Yuk
Vinyl is an excellent material for a droptop. You sure don’t want cloth as it stains easily and is difficult to clean. Leather looks great but honestly, doesn’t hold up as well as vinyl. 1970 was a stellar year for a full size Buick convertible.
Wet leather – yuck!