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Very Original 1971 Buick Skylark Convertible Sitting for Years Begs for Full Restoration

The car has been sitting for over a decade 21 photos
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution/eBay seller rossamus2
1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible1971 Buick Skylark Convertible
A 1971 Buick Skylark convertible that spent the last 13 years locked in a narrow garage is now fighting for survival, hoping someone online sees it and starts a complete restoration.
1971 did not bring too many significant changes to the Skylark lineup, especially as Buick was mostly focused on complying with the new emission regulations.

The base Skylark could only be ordered with a six-cylinder unit, so the power output was limited to 145 horsepower. The 250 (4.1-liter) straight-six came from Chevrolet, used on various other models, including Nova, Chevelle, and Impala.

The 1971 Skylark could also be ordered with various V8 engines, starting with the 350 (5.7-liter) V8 rated at 230 horsepower. This year's top engine choice was the 455 (7.5-liter) available on the Gran Sport 455 between 1970 and 1972.

A 1971 Skylark Custom convertible fitted from the factor with the 350 V8 engine is now fighting for survival after spending over one decade in storage. The owner says the engine was running fine when parked and shows signs of life, as the crankshaft still rotates. In theory, the V8 isn't frozen, but you should inspect everything thoroughly – the owner says the engine has not turned over yet, so the only way to take the car home is with a trailer.

The car's condition is good but still exhibits occasional problems that a new owner would want to resolve quickly. There's some rust in the trunk and a dent in the rear bumper. The metal is in good shape, too, though you should put the vehicle on a lift and inspect the floors. If the rust has already made its way to the trunk pan, it may also invade the floors.

The top has a tear but otherwise seems in great shape, especially considering the car's age and the long tenure in storage.

The best part about this Skylark is that it's still complete and very original. The seller says the only part that is no longer original is the radio. The car will need new fluids and a battery, so you can determine its condition more accurately after finalizing the regular maintenance.

The 1971 Skylark isn't the most desirable classic, but with 77,000 miles (124,000 km), this example is a good candidate for an occasional weekend driver.

The bidding is underway and has already attracted the attention of many people online. The top offer at the time of writing is $9,000, with approximately five days remaining until the auction comes to an end. Seller rossamus2 did not enable a reserve, so the highest bidder will take the Skylark home. The auction winner must make the complete payment in seven days.

The 2-door convertible sleeps in Streator, Illinois.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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