71 Skylark/new guy

[deloachman]

Its been 27 years since I bought my first car, a 71 Skylark. I had always wished it was a convertible. But it wasn't. I think I am ready to find the car that I wanted back then, but its a bit overwhelming. I really don't care if numbers match or if its all original. I'm just looking for a fast, fun convertible that I can drive and enjoy on the road. So here's the question: Where is the best place to find this car, not pay too much, or pay for something that I am not looking for like matching numbers, correct grills, and things like that? And, what should I expect to pay for this dream car of mine. Just looking for answers and advice. I'd love to find a 455 GS clone or build a skylark into one over the years. Any help you can offer would be great. I'm in Greenville SC.

[ss4825]

Try this link


http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?t=188559

[deloachman]

Thanks for the link. Obviously for that car low 20's is his number. Is that pretty much the ballpark of what I need to be prepared to spend?

[ss4825]

I would say high teens to mid 20's for a real nice vert GS clone. A real deal #'s vert would run you 40-65 depending on options and condition. His is a 4 speed and that means $$$$. If you went out and bought all the stuff needed to do a 4 speed swap it would run you pretty close to 5k with a tranny. IMHO

I'm up in North Carolina. There are several Buick folks over in the Charlotte area I'm sure you will get more feedback.

Good Luck in your search and welcome.

[deloachman]

What should the range be for a regular custom? And then over time I could make the GS conversion. I would love to have buckets with the center console. Is that as costly as the 4 speed?

[71stage1conv]

There are a many cars out there, and you will save a lot of money on a clone. Swap out a 350-2 for a 455-4, add a 4 speed if you want it. I'd contact Mark Reeves @ the Then and Now shop. He is close & has tons of cars there, and could probably hook you up.
http://www.thenandnowauto.com/index.php?option=com_user&view=login&return=aHR0cDovL3d3dy50aGVuYW5kbm93YXV0by5jb20vaW5 kZXgucGhwP29wdGlvbj1jb21fY29udGFjdCZJdGVtaWQ9Mw==

[MichaelGarrison]

I have a project for sale ..its a real 70 GS455 automatic convert. http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?t=182636

[deloachman]

Thanks for the info. I'm not sure just yet how much of a project I want to take on vs. getting something drivable. I guess I just need to start looking and see whats out there. Anymore feedback would be great.

[71stage1conv]

Think about a turn key price Mike.:BROW:

[deloachman]

You mean how much I want to have in the car whether or not I buy it complete or build it?

[Kick71]

I know of a 71' GS clone,that is real nice fast fun street car new 455 etc but not a covert. In NJ, let me know if you are interested.

Mike

[deloachman]

Thanks but I gotta have the convertible. For me, that's the main point.

Mike

[Kick71]

OK
good luck