Summary

Matching-numbers restoration. Powered by a 455ci 8-cylinder engine backed by a 3-speed automatic transmission. One of 25 Zone Office cars ordered by the Buick Purchasing Office. 10,833 miles (title reads exempt).

Details

This matching-numbers restored 1972 Buick GS 455 Stage 1 convertible is powered by a 455ci 8-cylinder engine backed by a 3-speed automatic transmission. This example is finished in Flame Orange, and factory options include Stage 1 performance, stereo tape player, through bumper exhaust extensions, functional hood-air induction, performance posi-traction axle, air conditioning, instrument gauges and a Rally steering wheel. This Buick GS is one of 25 Zone Office cars ordered by the Buick Purchasing Office in August 1971 under Wholesale Car Order KS7341. All 25 Zone Office cars were identically equipped and manufactured at Flint, MI, during the first week of 1972 vehicle production. Each of the 25 was delivered nationwide to one of the 25 regional Buick sales districts to promote the features of the 1972 Buick GS. This is the Zone 8 car that was delivered to and sold by Qua Buick in Cleveland, OH. It is matching-numbers with engine block #1238861-WS, date code H-2, matching VIN, left head #1238148, date code G-6, right head #1238148, date code G-13, TH400 BB date code, matching VIN, carburetor #7042242 MC date code #1971, distributor #1112016 and rear axle LW 3.42 ratio. The restoration of this car was undertaken in 2006 by a Buick restoration specialist, who documented the original condition of the car and his restoration work within a three-page letter that accompanies the restoration receipts; however, no restoration photographs are included. A Sloan Museum report was obtained at this time confirming the as-built condition. The restoration was conservative and limited to engine overhaul and blueprinting to 1970 specs, rechroming, new weatherstripping, body repaint in original color and other wearable items. The convertible top was replaced. During ownership, small repairs have been completed, such as a horn rebuild and 8-track player overhaul. Goodyear Polyglas GT tires were installed. Recent work includes an overhaul of the original 1971 date-code-correct carburetor and replacement of the brake booster, fuel pump and master cylinder, with AC Delco original parts. The sealed-beam headlights are original. The windshield is a vintage replacement; otherwise the glass is original. Documentation included in the sale is a vehicle warranty pamphlet with the original owner’s nameplate, Buick consumer information 1972 GS 455 engine booklet, 1972 Buick emission control systems booklet, Cold engine choke notice card, 1972 Buick GS owner’s manual and a Buick 1972 sales brochure catalog. The seller states the original driver’s door glass alignment is off, the window glass tilts slightly toward the rear, the factory-installed dashboard clock is intermittent and should be considered non-working, the radial spare tire does not match the four Goodyear Polyglas GT tires mounted to the car, the original 1972 sealed-beam headlights work fully but are dim and probably unsafe for nighttime driving, the adjustable front seat does not slide front and back when the lever is lifted and the front bumper guards are missing from the car. 10,833 miles (title reads exempt).