Rare 1968 Buick GS 400 Convertible Emerges as One of Only 2,454

Buick’s entry into the golden age of muscle cars was a bit different from what its corporate cousins were doing. While Chevrolet had the SS396, Pontiac the GTO, and Oldsmobile the 442, Buick’s contender wore the Grand Sport badge and brought its own distinct personality to the table. Now, a remarkably well-preserved 1968 GS 400 convertible has surfaced for sale in Arlington, Washington, carrying an asking price of $28,000.

The 1968 model year brought significant changes to GM’s intermediate A-body platform, which underpinned the Chevelle, Tempest, F-85, and Special. Two-door variants rode on a 112-inch wheelbase perimeter frame, while four-door sedans and wagons stretched to 116 inches. Buick’s GS line came in two forms: the GS 350 as a coupe only, and the GS 400 available as either a coupe or convertible. Total GS 400 output reached roughly 13,000 units, but only 2,454 were drop-tops, making this example genuinely scarce.

What sets this Buick apart from its platform-mates is its styling. While the other divisions shared certain design cues, Buick went its own direction with sculpted body sides and a distinctive concave rear treatment. This particular car has been resprayed in what appears to be Burnished Saddle, likely using a modern two-stage process given the depth and shine of the finish. The white folding top provides strong contrast against the brown exterior, and American Racing wheels give it a period-correct Day Two appearance. According to discussion around the listing, the factory original wheels are included with the sale.

Under the hood sits a 400 cubic-inch V8 rated at 340 gross horsepower, paired with a Super Turbine 400 automatic transmission — Buick’s name for GM’s Turbo-Hydramatic 400 three-speed unit. The odometer shows 13,850 miles, though the seller notes actual mileage is unknown. Inside, white vinyl bucket seats and a center console present a clean cabin that shows no signs of excessive sun exposure, a common concern with convertibles of this era.

The asking price of $28,000 seems reasonable given the car’s rarity and condition. While the brown color scheme may not appeal to every enthusiast, the combination of a scarce convertible body style, strong drivetrain, and what appears to be a quality restoration makes this GS 400 a compelling find for anyone hunting a piece of Buick muscle car history.