Most motoring enthusiasts think of American muscle cars as midsize and smaller models from the 1960s. However, some of the first muscle machines were full-sized models inspired by the stock cars circling NASCAR’s high banks. The 1970 Buick Wildcat recently listed on eBay is an extraordinary example.
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Turquoise Mist
Younger buyers gravitated toward Pontiac GTOs - opens in new window or tab. and Ford Mustangs - opens in new window or tab. with big engines and bold graphics. However, General Motors positioned models like the Buick Wildcat as touring sedans for business people with kids and other responsibilities. For certain Mad Men types, a back seat and a usable trunk were more critical than a hood scoop - opens in new window or tab. and loud colors.
This Buick Wildcat has six seats and a 370-horsepower, 455 cubic-inch Buick V-8 - opens in new window or tab. under the hood. The big V-8 has plenty of grunt to motivate the Buick’s two tons of metal. Meanwhile, a front bench seat provides enough room for a family (or fellow business tycoons) to stretch out.
The low mileage ’70 Wildcat sold on eBay was garage-kept. It’s finished in the original popular Misty Turquoise Metallic paint with a factory black vinyl roof covering. This Wildcat has an undeniable presence.
Subtle Style
Sporty touches set this vehicle apart from more staid full-size coupes. It features exposed wheels and subtle chrome exhaust tips - opens in new window or tab.. This Buick Wildcat is one of 9,400 produced in 1970, the final year of a production that began in 1962.
The black interior shows just as well as the outside, with little wear for a 50-something-year-old car. The seats, headliner - opens in new window or tab., dashboard, and carpets look virtually new, with no rips or tears. The only deviation from the original is the aftermarket instrumentation - opens in new window or tab. custom-fitted in the dash.
Other desirable features include air conditioning—unusual for 1970—a factory AM/FM radio, and a tilt steering wheel. The odometer shows a little more than 77,000 miles. The original owner's manual - opens in new window or tab., warranty booklet, and other documentation remain with the vehicle.
This big Buick Wildcat combines style, muscle, and room for six. Don Draper would approve.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.