Full details & bid : hemmings.com
A Rare and Heavily Optioned Wildcat from a Bygone Era: The Buick Wildcat, introduced in 1963, offered a blend of sporty styling and potent performance within Buick’s lineup. The 1966 model year saw the continuation of this popular personal luxury coupe. This particular example is an exceptionally rare and heavily optioned 1966 Buick Wildcat Custom Sport Coupe, special-ordered by its original owner. Having been stored in its original owner’s garage since 1985 and showing a remarkably low 30,478 original miles, this Wildcat offers a unique glimpse into the past, appearing much as it did when it left the Buick dealership. Its special-order nature is further evidenced by unique features like rear side marker lights, reportedly installed due to the owner’s connection with the Buick plant manager, predating their standard availability on Wildcats.
High-Performance 425 Cubic Inch V8 Power: This special-order Wildcat boasts the desirable high-performance 425 cubic inch V8 engine. This powerful engine, a hallmark of Buick performance in the mid-1960s, provided significant torque and impressive acceleration for a car of its size. While exact horsepower figures can vary slightly depending on the specific engine code and year, the 425ci V8 in 1966 typically produced around 340 horsepower and a substantial amount of torque, ensuring a responsive and engaging driving experience. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting Super Turbine automatic transmission, known for its reliability and seamless gear changes. This combination, along with the optional performance axle with a 3:42 gear ratio and Posi Traction, suggests a focus on both comfortable cruising and capable performance when desired.
A Treasure Trove of Original Features and Options: This Wildcat is a rolling showcase of factory options, many of them quite rare for the period. These include air conditioning for comfortable climate control, power steering for effortless maneuverability, power brakes for confident stopping, a power-adjustable front seat for personalized comfort, and power windows for added convenience. The dual exhaust system hints at the V8’s powerful nature. Further enhancing its appeal are features like a rear window defroster, a distinctive four-note horn, oversized whitewall tires mounted on chrome-plated wheels, a Sonomatic radio with a power antenna, soft ray tinted glass, and impeccably preserved interior and trunk floor mats. Even a dealer-installed tissue dispenser under the dash and a dealer-provided garbage can add to its unique character. The inclusion of the original window sticker further confirms the extensive list of factory-installed options.
Preserved Originality and Smooth Operation: Having been carefully preserved for nearly four decades, this Wildcat remains remarkably original. The Shadow Turquoise Poly paint, believed to be the original finish, still shines well, though it exhibits some expected blemishes consistent with its age. The vinyl top, lenses, and glass are reported to be in fantastic condition, and the body and underbody are noted to be rust-free. The black vinyl interior, complete with front and rear seat belts, retains its original comfort and is described as being in exceptional condition, along with the door panels, sills, jambs, instrument panel, and dash. Even the original floor mats and headliner are well-preserved. Mechanically, the car is reported to start, run, drive, and handle as it should, with the torquey 425ci engine and smooth Super Turbine transmission performing admirably. All lights, signals, wipers, horn, and the power antenna are said to be in working order. This Wildcat truly represents a rare opportunity to experience a well-preserved and heavily optioned piece of 1960s Buick history.
Summary:
- Special-order 1966 Buick Wildcat Custom Sport Coupe.
- Only 30,478 original miles.
- High-performance 425 cubic inch V8 engine.
- Super Turbine automatic transmission.
- Heavily optioned with rare features including A/C, power accessories, performance axle, and more.
- Original Shadow Turquoise Poly paint and immaculate black interior.
- Includes original build sheets and window sticker.
Disclaimer: Vehicle condition and specifications are based on the seller’s description. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of the vehicle’s condition and authenticity.
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