1963 Buick LeSabre Convertible

Description

Big Buicks have been overlooked for too long, but this 1963 Buick LeSabre convertible is looking to change all that. Handsome and restrained looks, a torque-happy 401 cubic inch Nailhead, and an unusual color scheme make this Buick an out-of-the-ordinary choice that brings class and performance in equal measure.

Code S Bronze Mist is this car's original color and it wears it rather well. This is a big car, make no mistake about that, but the light color and tasteful ornamentation make it look trim and athletic. This appears to be a good, solid car that was repainted once quite some time ago so it has an authentic survivor look. It appears that the sheetmetal underneath is straight and didn't need major surgery to bring it up to par, and it fits together in a way that only good, original, unmolested cars can. The paint has a soft shine that looks suitably vintage and makes the car look refreshingly clean. The '50s were over, so trim was restrained, although Buick still put portholes on the front fenders, surrounding them with a crease in the sheetmetal that stretches into the doors. Most, if not all of the trim is original, so that should give you a good idea of how well-preserved this Buick really is, and with an afternoon of polishing, it'll look spectacular. A set of aftermarket fender skirts help with the long, low look.

Aside from perhaps the carpets, the interior is remarkable in its originality. Again, this probably comes from living an easy life in a warm climate, but it's obvious this car didn't sit out in the sun with the top down for hours on end. The wide bench seat is in good shape, showing the expected signs of age such as some fading and a popped seam or two, but it's still quite comfortable for road trips today. There are echoes of the Riviera in the brushed metal dashboard with two large, round dials, and it's nicely equipped with factory A/C (needs to be serviced). The original Sonomatic AM radio remains in the dash, perched right below the aircraft-style HVAC controls that are a kind of cool touch. There's no disputing the originality of all the components, and while they're not perfect, it would be a crime to try to restore everything. The white power convertible top is in decent condition and features a clear plastic rear window, while the extremely clean trunk is outfitted with a full-sized spare tire and jack assembly and what appear to be the original mats.

The '410' you see on the air cleaner is a reference to the 401 cubic inch V8's torque rating, and if there's one thing the Buick Nailhead does well, it's make torque. Acceleration feels effortless at any speed, and the smooth flow of power from the big V8 is what defines Buicks of the era. Unquestionably the original engine, it's unknown whether it's ever been rebuilt, but when it runs this well, there's no need to worry. The block, valve covers, intake manifold, and air cleaner were obviously freshened at some point, but otherwise it's completely stock and in good order. A correct single exhaust system (is that the original muffler?) gives it a quiet, confident sound and the Dynaflow automatic transmission and original rear end make for a car that was just made for long road trips. Underneath, there's plenty of evidence of clean warm-weather living, and the original wheel covers are surrounded by recent whitewall radials.

High style and high performance live comfortably together in this LeSabre ragtop, and you can get a lot of old-school luxury for not a lot of cash to go with it. Call today!