Timeline of the Buick GS: Buick’s muscle cars part 1
The Buick GS (Gran Sport) was released in 1965 as an option for an existing car. It was an intermediate muscle car, but after some tweaking and fine tuning, it became one of the most likeable and beautiful muscle cars in history.
1965: Buick Skylark Gran Sport beginnings
Buick produced its first unique muscle car in 1965 after being inspired by the Pontiac GTO of the previous year. Though the Pontiac had a maximum of 400 cubic inches, Buick fit their 401-cubic-inch engine from the full-size models into their intermediate model - the Skylark. They called it the Buick Skylark Gran Sport. The engine itself was labeled "Wildcat 445" because of its torque rating. It was released in the 1950s and was called the "nail head engine" because of the valve size.
The Skylark GS models came as hardtops, pillared coupes and convertibles. Each had the convertible frame and a unique suspension. Production numbers were 2,282 two-door coupes, 11,351 two-door hardtops and 2,147 convertibles. The available engine was a 401-cubic-inch V-8 with 325 horsepower and 445 lb foot of torque.
The Skylark GS was a success. Around 16,000 were sold that year.
1966: More power for the GS
The year 1966 meant more power and a new design for the Buick Skylark Gran Sport. This was the second season, so Buick wanted its success to continue. Each new Skylark got rear sloping sail panels. These extended the roofline at the rear past the window. However, the GS models had blacked-out grilles and hood scoops facing the rear. They also had simulated front fender vents and carried the GS badge.
The engines for 1966 were still the same 401 V-8 with 325 horsepower, but with an added 340-horsepower version. This version was hot on the market, but the higher pricing was a turn-off. Production dropped to only 13,816 that year with these numbers for each model: 1,835 two-door coupes, 9,934 two-door hardtops and 2,047 convertibles.
1967: Buick introduces the GS 400
For 1967, Buick discontinued the 401 V-8 and released a new GS model carrying a 400 V-8 engine that could produce 340 horsepower, the same as the 401. The GS 400 engine had a modern design and could run smoother and rev higher. It featured the air cleaner of the future. In appearance, the GS had hood scoops that faced forward, but were still not functional.
Buick also introduced a new three-speed automatic version, which tested in performance over the three- or four-speed manual cars. Another model released that year was the Junior GS, which dubbed the former GS 340.
Production numbers for 1967 were as follows: 1,014 two-door coupes, 10,659 two-door hardtops and 2,140 convertibles.
1968: Drastic changes for the Buick GS
In 1968, Buick released the GS models with some drastic changes in structure. The wheelbase lost three inches, and the overall length was 4.4 inches shorter. However, the weight of the car increased due to a massive rear end style. The sides had sail creases as well. The 400 V-8 engine with 340 horsepower was used.
The California GS was also introduced in 1968. It was sold only in California and was actually a GS 350 model with unique California trim and badges. It had a standard two-speed automatic transmission, chrome wheels and exterior trim, a vinyl top and a DeLuxe steering wheel.
Buick also offered a rare dealer-installed option, which would give hotter cam to the 400 engine along with stronger valve springs and a remodeled transmission. This special offer was tagged Stage 1 Special Package.
For the 1968 Junior GS models, a 350-cubic-inch V-8 engine was used with 280 horsepower. Both the GS 350 and GS 400 two-doors were very close in production. That year there were 10,530 GS 350 two-door hardtops, 10,743 GS 400 two-door hardtops and 2,454 GS 400 convertibles in production.
1969: Buick's Stage 1 and Stage 2 get noticed
Competition was stiff for 1969, and Buick wanted to stand out among the masses. The GS was released with the standard functional hood scoops for cold-air induction, a feature which also slightly increased horsepower and torque. The ratings of the engines remained the same.
The California GS and GS 350 used the 350 V-8 engine. But the interesting news that year was the two new options for the 400 - Stage 1 and Stage 2. Horsepower for the Stage 1 was boosted to 345 horsepower. The Stage 2 was increased to 360 horsepower.
Despite the power options, sales were down that year with production being as follows: 4,933 GS 350 two-door hardtops, 6,456 GS 400 two-door hardtops and 1,776 GS 400 convertibles.
