The New Full Sized Buick

From 1935 until 1958 Buick's top shelf full-sized car was the Special. But in 1951 styling guru Harley Earl created the GM LeSabre show car which sported aircraft influenced design elements such as a wrap around windshield and tail fins. The car wasn't associated with any particular GM division but Buick took the basic design for their 1956 and 1957 models.

In 1959 Buick decided to introduce four new nameplates, the Invicta, Electra, Electra 225 and their very own LeSabre. The LeSabre took over as the marque's top full-sized car. The LeSabre sported a 364 cubic inch V 8 that pumped out 250 horse power. Of note, a no-cost optional economy version of the engine, which produced 235 horse power, became available in 1960. The engines were equipped with a two barrel carburetor. A larger 300 horse power version was available which sported a four barrel carb. The standard transmission was a three speed manual but records indicate that very few people bought that version, opting instead for the Turbine Drive automatic.

Buick re-styled their entire line in 1961 to give them a more modern look. This second generation LeSabre was practically the same under its skin. While it held onto the same 123 inch wheelbase from the previous models the overall car was downsized just a bit. The manual transmission was no longer standard as Buick opted for the two speed automatic. The biggest changes were in the interior where a new instrument cluster and new upholstery trim found their way to the car.

The 1961 LeSabre convertible seen here is a perfect example of why this car became Buick's top seller for many years and why the LeSabre badge outlived all of the other models introduced in 1959.