Pick of the Day: 1961 Buick Skylark

Newer is not necessarily better. That’s why the phrase “They don’t do it like they used to” is a complaint, not a compliment. This statement applies to the design of Skylark in the 1990s, which was an unforgettable combination of lines and curves. It has none of the visual flair of our Daily Pick, a 1961 Buick Skylark for sale on ClassicCars.com from a dealer in Birmingham, Alabama. (Click the link to see the list)

After a brief run in the 1950s, the Skylark name introduced a new compact model in 1961. In the brochure, the automaker touts its interior’s “cloud-soft foam padding” and “extremely rich” trim. It notes how the optional dual-channel turbo-driven transmission can enhance the “dazzling” power and performance of the existing 215ci V8. Buick also singled out the Skylark’s control-arm suspension for smoothing out bumps and vibrations in everyday driving.

Sure, it talks about the exterior, noting that the steel roof is covered in anti-fouling vinyl and the wheel arches have a turbine look, but there’s more to it. Look at this Skylark – its design elements are both complementary and contrasting in a way. Quad round headlights glow from between the rounded tips of the pointed fenders.

Viewed from the side, the distance between the Skylark’s most prominent lines widens as they flow into flat wraparound taillights and bright wheel arch accents at the rear wheels. What a strangely stylish little car.

This particular Skylark received a fresh coat of blue paint at some point in the past. Since that time, this surface has aged and accumulated some imperfections and patina. The seats inside are made of blue and gray vinyl. The interior (including the headliner) appears to be in good condition, except for the patchwork carpet above the tunnel.

The original 215ci V8 reportedly had more patina and was factory rated at 185 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. According to the selling dealer, it is connected to a two-speed automatic transmission. If this is also original, it must be the dual-way turbine drive transmission, which has a downshift function to pass between 18 mph and 55 mph.

Buick may not be making the same cars it once was, but the good news is you can still buy its long-gone models. The dealer’s listing says that to purchase this ’61 Skylark, you’ll need to spend $20,000. Just go to the listing for this car and you can contact the selling dealer and have this bluebird fly into your garage.

Click here to view the daily featured list on ClassicCars.com.