1969 Buick GS400 Convertible Stage 1

Description

Launched in 1964 during the start of the Muscle Car era, the Gran Sport (GS) was Buick’s answer to the newly released Pontiac GTO. Based on the Skylark Custom, the GS was available with a 401 cu-in V8 which had to be marketed as 400 cu-in to conform to GM restrictions on engine size for their A-body chassis. GM pressed for rapid improvement to the second-generation GS sales numbers and, happy to oblige, Buick bent all the rules for any possible advantage over the in-house competition. First offered through their dealer network as a series of over-the-counter components or installed directly via the dealer, the high-performance Stage 1 package was a massive upgrade to the GS 400. This upgrade package proved so successful in 1968 that it was offered as a factory option, code L75 the following year. This special high-performance package would add a high-lift camshaft, special Quadrajet carburetor, and positraction rear end to the already potent options list of the GS 400. Offering customers an impressive 345 horsepower, the Stage 1 upgrade also delivered a whopping 440 ft-lb of low-end torque crucial to upholding Buick’s “Fast with Class” reputation.

Highlights

• Equipped with the highly desirable factory Stage 1 upgrade including a high-lift camshaft, four-barrel Quadrajet carburetor, and a 3.42 positraction rear end

• Powered by a 400 cu-in V8 paired with a numbers-matching high-performance BB automatic transmission

• Featuring an all-new frame installed with new rear quarter panels, floor pans, and trunk pans in 2020

• Suspension, shocks, progressive springs, Doug's headers, and a 2 ½” exhaust system sourced from the Buick GS Club in 2018

• Finished in a striking Signal Red exterior with a white convertible top

• Bucket seats trimmed in Expanded-Vinyl Pearl White upholstery

• New brakes lines, fuel lines, fuel pump, steering gear and lines, and transmission pan gasket in 2020

• Upgraded oil pump installed along with timing cover, timing gear, new belts, fuel pump, water pump, and transmission pan gasket in 2022

• One of just 131 Stage One GS 400 convertibles produced in 1969

• Please note that while the odometer displays 17,387 miles, the true mileage of this GS400 is unknown

Features

• Dual exhaust with chrome exits

• Coil spring front and rear suspension

• Reinforced perimeter frame

• Functional hood scoops

• Power front disc brakes

• Power re-circulating ball steering

• Fourteen-inch wheels with BF Goodrich Radial tires

• Bucket seats

• Power convertible top

• AM/FM Radio

• Heater/Defroster

• Cigar lighter; ashtray - front and rear

• Low-profile window control knobs

• A/C was converted to R134

Included

• Spare tire with jack

• Owner’s manual

• Factory manuals

• Collection of Buick GS Club newsletters

• Original exhaust manifolds

Known Flaws

• Upon inspection, a Car Specialist would note that this vehicle would benefit from a paint correction along with a few small stone chips

• Small bubbling at the bottom of the front fender behind the front wheel

• The A/C needs to be recharged with R134

Ownership History

According to the vehicle trim tag, this Buick GS 400 Stage 1 was originally delivered in the Signal Red over Pearl White interior specification currently worn. Purchased by the current owner in 2012, the consignor reports the paintwork was redone at some point during previous ownership. Under current ownership, the rear quarter panels were refinished, and this vehicle has been treated to a new frame which has been well preserved in the dry Arizona climate.

Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Group Car Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner for this vehicle.

Contact: Brandi Cole Phone: 303.618.9052 email: brandi.cole@broadarrowgroup.com