1971 Buick GS Stage 1 $59,995
Buick’s proud tradition of performance continued with the model redesigns for 1973, but few realize a special package flew from Flint that year. Based on the new Century body featuring the distinctive Colonnade restyling for the first time, several-hundred buyers opted for the noteworthy top-of-the-line Gran Sport Stage 1 455 CI engine package, but only 92 of them also chose to equip theirs with a 4-speed transmission in 1973.
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In fact, the list becomes even more exclusive in that only 41 of these hardtops were built with factory air conditioning. The example here is the beneficiary of a frame-up restoration, refinished with its original Medium Blue color by an award-winning paint specialist. A highly optioned Stage 1 to begin with, its original factory-installed engine has now been rebuilt to “better than new,” using high-performance specifications from the legendary 1970 Stage 1 455 package. This adaptation is fitting, as the car was sold new at Len Immke Buick in Columbus, Ohio. Immke actually campaigned a similar '73 Stage 1 of his own, and was a known Buick performance dealer in this era. A Positraction differential completes the driveline. Beginning from a solid original meant that the original interior could be retained, and it remains in excellent condition. This is equipped with luxuries like an AM/FM stereo, power windows and seat, electronic door locks and trunk release, tilt steering column and a Rallye steering wheel.
Driving is pleasurable and direct thanks to fast-ratio power steering, power disc brakes, chrome-styled wheels, radial-tuned suspension and rarely seen correct NOS radial tires, this model year being the first the design was available. Documented by both the VIN designation as a Stage 1 and accompanying Sloan Museum documentation from the Buick archives, the Gran Sport legacy is far from over when considering the complementary facets of this 4-speed luxury muscle car.
Driving is pleasurable and direct thanks to fast-ratio power steering, power disc brakes, chrome-styled wheels, radial-tuned suspension and rarely seen correct NOS radial tires, this model year being the first the design was available. Documented by both the VIN designation as a Stage 1 and accompanying Sloan Museum documentation from the Buick archives, the Gran Sport legacy is far from over when considering the complementary facets of this 4-speed luxury muscle car.