In modern times, we don’t generally think of Buick as a performance vehicle worthy of being a pace car for motorsport, but back in the day, Buick had some interesting things going. The car we see today is listed here on Hagerty in Pennsylvania and is a well-restored example of one of those interesting things – the limited-run Pace Car package for 1975. Let’s take a look!
Many of our readers know that in 1975, a lot of things were happening, but particular to the topic at hand, Buick was being stifled by emissions, safety rules and a larger brand image problem all at once. They needed to get the word out that they weren’t just old-people’s cars, and a chance to pace the Indianapolis 500 was one they could not afford to miss! One source we found said that the pace car and its associated sale package were a bit rushed, due to decisions far above their pay grade, but it generally ticked all the boxes for the day: Bright, bold American flag colors and design, a big engine and automatic transmission…and a special “Free Spirit” package with unique options and features.
The car we see today is quite an impressive example. We’re told that the car has had a complete restoration, but has only seen 46,000 miles. From the pictures, it looks like that is true. We’re told that the exterior stripes are painted, not just vinyl decals, which in itself is very impressive!
Inside, the seats and interior look spectacular. Note the steering wheel that looks like a Corvette unit and the console automatic floor shifter that was only offered on the Free Spirit that year.
Under the hood, the 455 shines like it hasn’t seen a single mile, and notice the light-colored fan shroud!
Of course, we can’t skip the trunk – it, too, looks like someone went to great lengths.
Overall, it’s a very impressive vehicle. Many of the ones we have seen or featured in years past are in far worse condition, so for someone to have gone to great lengths to make this one nice, props to them. The asking price is, in my personal opinion, a bit optimistic, but what do YOU think? Let us know in the comments!
Very, very, nicely done!!! Graphics and all look terrific. Even though by ’75 the Buick 455 ( well all GM 455s) were choked down by a lot of emissions controls, these were still torque monsters, and I’m sure moved this Regal down the road with some authority.
Wow, I forgot how gaudy the stuff auto makers were selling in the mid-70s was, compared to what they offered 5 to 10 years earlier.
Looks like showroom condition.