1960 Buick LeSabre Convertible

In 1960, Buick's LeSabre received a major facelift with the new body design, sharing only the roof and boot lid with the 1959 model. The new Buick now sported a concave grille and horizontal headlights centred by Buick’s, then new, tri-shield logo which is still in use today. Inside, a revised instrument panel featured a Mirromatic speedometer for which the lens could be adjusted to better visibility to suit the driver. A new two-spoke steering wheel with horn bars as opposed to the traditional 'horn-ring' was introduced as well.

Slightly toned down from 1959, the 1960 LeSabre was still dramatic and distinctive. As Motor Trend Magazine wrote in period 'In what may amount to a car maker's most dramatic act of overcompensation, Buick broke its run of bloated, conservative cars in 1959 and 1960. With angry eyebrows over spider-like eyes and toothy grilles to match, even the most sedate 1960 Buick sedan looked as if it could slither from a dark lagoon and devour slumbering holidaymakers. Its purposeful-looking fins and afterburner-like tail-lights suggested it could launch itself skyward if confronted by the sheriff during the act.

Admittedly that particular car was all black and looked rather mean, however the fabulous 1960 LeSabre Convertible on offer here looks simply fabulous in its bright California colours. It was the lucky recipient of a complete frame-up restoration in 2011 and was repainted in its original colour of Titan Red and fitted with a glorious red and white interior, which complements the exterior colour very well. The 364ci 'Nailhead' V8 is coupled to a twin-turbine 2-speed automatic transmission and the car is equipped with power steering and power brakes to enhance the driving experience. The result of all this hard work was a Senior First Place in 2013 at the AACA, and the winner’s medallion is attached to the front grille.

The car's current owner, our vendor, bought the Buick through Barratt Jackson in early 2018 and imported it to the UK soon after to join his significant private Collection and it's resided there ever since. As you can imagine, interested parties really need to come and see this car for themselves, its sheer presence will impress let alone the quality on offer. Presented to auction with its UK V5C and a small history file, this is a rare opportunity to find such a quintessential piece of early 1960s Americana in such wonderful condition.