Pick of the Day: 1974 Buick Gran Sport

It’s amazing how many popular cars went flat once the Malaise Era began. Witness the Buick GS, which has strong collector appeal through 1972. However, the more roadable 1973 is off most people’s radar. For that reason, it’s worth highlighting this 1974 Buick Gran Sport with a 455 four-barrel as our Pick of the Day. It is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Arlington, Texas. (Click the link to view the listing)

When General Motors introduced its “Colonnade” series of mid-size cars for 1973, it coincided with the federalized front bumpers. This did not help styling at all, though some models came off better than others (arguably, the Pontiac Grand Am and Chevrolet Laguna). The fact that emissions had taken an even bigger toll on most of the available performance engines was no help.

Among the mid-size Buicks for 1973, the Skylark name was temporarily put to rest and the Century was revived. At the top was the Regal, with the Century Luxus and Century 350 rounding out the series. The Gran Sport package was available on the Century 350 and offered up to 270 net horsepower with the 455 Stage 1 — the same horsepower as in 1972. Yet, despite the improved driving dynamics and comfort, Colonnade-era Gran Sports languish in obscurity.

For 1974, the Gran Sport continued to remain available, as did the Stage 1. The 1974 Gran Sport package included the 350 two-barrel, automatic transmission, variable-ratio power steering, front disc brakes, Rallye ride and handling suspension with rear stabilizer bar, blacked-out grille, blacked-out headlight and taillight bezels, rear stripes and Gran Sport decals, wheel opening moldings, instrument gauges and electric clock. One could opt for the 350 four-barrel, but when the 455 two- or four-barrel was specified, Buick would throw in dual exhausts, dual snorkel air cleaner, and power disc brakes with dual tandem booster. The Stage 1 made its final appearance for 1974, now rated at 255 horsepower, and it included a high-energy ignition system and Positive Traction rear.

This 1974 Buick Gran Sport is one of 3,355 built, with only 579 featuring the 455 four-barrel engine (as evidenced by the “U” in the VIN). “This Buick is a 1974 and a very clean example of one of these cars,” says the seller. “It is all rust free and painted in a dark red with white GS stripe.” Note the optional Landau roof, which the seller says is in great shape. “The glass all has a slight tint and is damage free. It wears its original bumpers which are nicely chromed and cleanly mounted in place,” he adds.

Under the hood, the original 455 is reputed to run well. Inside, the interior features a combination of white upholstery with red components, with options that include high-back bucket seats, console, power steering, and air conditioning.

As a bonus, this GS comes with its original window sticker, so documenting its pedigree is as easy as pie. With the anniversary of the Class of 1974 coming up, why not save this car from the clutches of obscurity and enjoy the last bastion of big-block Buick power? For $23,000, you can proudly demonstrate the last vestige of Buick performance until the turbos started tearing up the scene.

To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.