Buick Skylark
The Gran Sport — Buick's muscle car sleeper with Nailhead power.
Buick's entry in the muscle car sweepstakes, the Gran Sport option package stuffed a 401 Nailhead V8 into the mid-size Skylark and created a car that could embarrass better-known muscle cars. The Stage 1 455 option for 1970–72 produced 360 hp and enormous torque — making it one of the fastest street cars of the era at any price.
History
When Pontiac proved the mid-size muscle car concept with the GTO, every GM division followed. Buick's answer was the Gran Sport in 1965 — the 401 Nailhead V8 in the Skylark body. The GS400 (1967–69) with a 400 V8 replaced the Nailhead and is the performance sweet spot of the line. The Stage 1 option introduced for 1969 and continued through 1972 was a factory street-strip package that outran most of its contemporaries off the line.
Notable Versions
Stage 1 455 (1970–72)
360 hp, massive torque. Often faster in real-world testing than factory ratings suggested.
GS400 (1967–69)
400 V8 in the GS package — the performance standard of the line before the 455 arrived.
GSX (1970)
Appearance and performance package in Saturn Yellow or Apollo White. Very desirable and frequently faked.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
A-body rust patterns apply
GM A-body: lower quarters, trunk floor, floor pans. Well-understood and well-supported by reproduction parts.
Stage 1 must be verified
The Stage 1 option adds significant value and is easily faked by swapping engines. Demand the broadcast sheet.
GSX documentation is essential
GSX cars were built in small numbers and are well-documented. The GSX registry is the authoritative source.
Nailhead engines (1965–67) require different sourcing
Parts for the 401/425 Nailhead are harder to find than later Buick V8s. Factor this into a project budget.
Quick Specs
- Engine options
- 300, 340 V8 (base); 401 Nailhead, 400, 455 V8 (GS)
- Horsepower
- 210–360 hp (Stage 1 455: 360 hp)
- Wheelbase
- 112 in
- Transmission
- 4-spd manual, TH350/400 automatic
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
Buick Skylark For Sale
2 listings currently available