The Banker's Hot Rod

In 1959 Buick decided to retire its successful Century (though it would return in 1973 in a new form) but still wanted to continue with a new full sized car. What they did was essentially pair the underpinnings of a re-badged Special (it was named the LeSabre) and mated it with their 401 cubic inch Nailhead V 8 engine. They named this new model the Invicta which was derived from Latin for unbeatable or invincible. But people soon started calling this combination of luxury and power the "Banker's Hot Rod."

Being Buick's mid level car, nestled between the entry level LaSabre and the top of the line Electra, hopes were high for this to be a high sales generator. The first generation, running the car's first two years, failed to live up to these expectations.

This brought along a number of changes for the second generation which was introduced in 1961. Many of the changes were cosmetic. A new body was designed and placed on a shorter wheel base. This also lightened the car considerably.

Buick brought in various new trims for this generation, including the Wildcat that was introduced in 1962. A two door hardtop, the Wildcat became quite successful for Buick. In fact, by the 1963 model year the Wildcat would replace many of the other models within the Invicta line, including the two door coupe and convertible as well as the four door hard top. While still technically an Invicta, the Wildcat name would be used to help sales. The Invicta name would be retired following the 1963 model year.

Our featured car is a second generation convertible. Unfortunately I wasn't able to talk to the owner to find out the exact year but it has to be a 1961 or 1962 since Buick did not make a convertible available in 1963.