Photo: Craigslist
It didn't take long for the Wildcat to catch everybody's attention. Launched in 1962 to join the Invicta lineup in an exclusive two-door hardtop, the new Buick rapidly impressed.
First, it did it from a pricing perspective. The Wildcat could be had for $3,927, becoming the most expensive version in the Invicta lineup. Second, the standard 401 V8 engine with 325 horsepower paired with an impressive standard equipment lineup, including bucket seats, a tachometer, and a dual exhaust system, made it a money-making machine.
The Wildcat's growth continued in 1963 when it gained series status, with 1964 witnessing the debut of a pillared four-door sedan and the introduction of two optional engines. The Wildcat could be had with a 425ci V8, available in the lineup with 340 and 360-horsepower versions.
The Wildcats in these pics are proud members of the 1964 model year, albeit all signs seem to suggest that only one of the two will survive. While both cars are doable, their destiny looks set in stone: the grey model will probably serve as a donor for the maroon sibling.
This approach makes sense. The maroon Wildcat has already received major body repairs, with the owner explaining on Craigslist that they spent $10,000 on getting everything done. The second car is complete but hasn't run in years, so it'll probably donate most of its good parts to the maroon brother. Except for the engine, as the restored model is now prepared for an LS upgrade.
The owner says they prepared the maroon Wildcat for this hefty upgrade with LS wiring, and the buyer must complete the project with their engine. However, the duo comes alongside "boxes and boxes full of NOS parts," and if you're an ambitious restorer, you could eventually save both cars. It won't be easy, especially because the grey Wildcat looks to be in a more challenging shape, but you should see both vehicles for a clearer picture of how much work they require.
I admit that a 1964 Wildcat with an LS upgrade sounds intriguing, and given I'm a big fan of all-original classics, I think the grey car deserves a second chance, too. However, using it as a donor is way too convenient, so fingers crossed that someone has the time, money, and patience to bring both back to the road – one with an LS engine and another one in all-original shape.
Both Wildcats come without rust, as they spent their life in Arizona, so no need to worry from a metal condition perspective.
You can have the duo for $10,000, and if you want to see them in person in Scottdale, and you'll need a large trailer to take it home if you reach a deal.
The Wildcat's growth continued in 1963 when it gained series status, with 1964 witnessing the debut of a pillared four-door sedan and the introduction of two optional engines. The Wildcat could be had with a 425ci V8, available in the lineup with 340 and 360-horsepower versions.
The Wildcats in these pics are proud members of the 1964 model year, albeit all signs seem to suggest that only one of the two will survive. While both cars are doable, their destiny looks set in stone: the grey model will probably serve as a donor for the maroon sibling.
This approach makes sense. The maroon Wildcat has already received major body repairs, with the owner explaining on Craigslist that they spent $10,000 on getting everything done. The second car is complete but hasn't run in years, so it'll probably donate most of its good parts to the maroon brother. Except for the engine, as the restored model is now prepared for an LS upgrade.
The owner says they prepared the maroon Wildcat for this hefty upgrade with LS wiring, and the buyer must complete the project with their engine. However, the duo comes alongside "boxes and boxes full of NOS parts," and if you're an ambitious restorer, you could eventually save both cars. It won't be easy, especially because the grey Wildcat looks to be in a more challenging shape, but you should see both vehicles for a clearer picture of how much work they require.
I admit that a 1964 Wildcat with an LS upgrade sounds intriguing, and given I'm a big fan of all-original classics, I think the grey car deserves a second chance, too. However, using it as a donor is way too convenient, so fingers crossed that someone has the time, money, and patience to bring both back to the road – one with an LS engine and another one in all-original shape.
Both Wildcats come without rust, as they spent their life in Arizona, so no need to worry from a metal condition perspective.
You can have the duo for $10,000, and if you want to see them in person in Scottdale, and you'll need a large trailer to take it home if you reach a deal.
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