Newer isn’t necessarily better. That’s why the phrase, “They don’t make ’em like they used to,” is a complaint, not a compliment. That saying applies to the 1990s Skylark’s design, a forgettable compilation of lines and curves. It had none of the visual flair of our Pick of the Day, a 1961 Buick Skylark listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Birmingham, Alabama. (Click on the link to view the listing)
After a short run in the 1950s, the Skylark name returned on a new compact model for 1961. In the brochure, the automaker touted its interior’s “soft-as-a-cloud foam padding” and “devastatingly rich” appointments. It pointed out how the optional Dual-Path Turbine Drive transmission enhanced the available 215ci V8’s “dazzling” power and performance. Buick also made sure to mention the Skylark’s Control Arm Suspension removed bumps and shakes from everyday driving.
Of course, it touched upon the exterior, noting that the steel roof was covered in a stain-resistant vinyl and that the wheel covers had a turbine look to them, but it could’ve said more. Just look at this Skylark—its design elements somehow complement and contrast with each other simultaneously. The quad circular headlights shine out from between the rounded tips of the pointed fenders.
In profile, the distance between the Skylark’s most prominent lines widens as they flow into the flat, wrap-around taillights and the rear wheels’ bright wheel arch trim. What an oddly stylish little car.
This particular Skylark received fresh blue paint at some point in the past. Since then, that finish has aged and accumulated some imperfections and a patina. Inside, the seats were recovered in blue and gray vinyl. Aside from the patched-together carpeting over the tunnel, it seems the interior—including the headliner—is in good shape.
There’s more patina on the reportedly original 215ci V8, which was factory-rated at 185 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. According to the selling dealer, it is connected to a two-speed automatic. If that’s original, too, then it must be the Dual-Path Turbine Drive transmission, which had a downshift function for passing between 18 and 55 mph.
Buick may not make cars like it used to, but the good news is you can still buy its long-gone models. To get this ’61 Skylark, the dealer’s listing says it’ll cost you $20,000. Just go to the listing for this car, where you can reach out to the selling dealer and get this blue bird to fly into your garage.
Click here to view the listing for this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com.
Source: www.classiccars.com