Buick Skylark: Price, Mileage, Features, Specs, Variants, Engine, Interior, History & More

Brief Introduction of Buick Skylark

The Buick Skylark is a passenger car with a rich history, produced by Buick over six production runs spanning 46 years. Its design evolved dramatically over the decades, reflecting changing automotive technology, consumer tastes, and industry standards. The Skylark nameplate has adorned a variety of body styles, including convertibles, hardtops, sedans, and even station wagons, showcasing its remarkable ability to adapt. Initially introduced as a limited-production luxury convertible to celebrate Buick’s 50th anniversary, the Skylark later transitioned into a compact, then a mid-size car, and eventually a front-wheel-drive economy model. This constant reinvention, from a symbol of post-war opulence to a practical family car, makes the Skylark a noteworthy model in American automotive history.

Buick Skylark Overview

Generations and History of Buick Skylark

First Generation (1953–1954)

The Buick Skylark first appeared in 1953 as a limited-production specialty convertible to commemorate Buick’s 50th anniversary. Sharing its chassis with the Buick Roadmaster, it was a top-of-the-line luxury vehicle. The initial 1953 model featured a powerful 188-horsepower V8 engine. For 1954, the Skylark was based on the new Century chassis and came with a 200-horsepower V8 engine. These early Skylarks were lavishly equipped with standard features like power brakes, power steering, and a power-operated top and windows.

Second Generation (1961–1963)

After a hiatus, the Skylark name returned in 1961 as a luxury trim level for the compact Buick Special. It was initially offered as a two-door coupe and featured a 215 cubic-inch aluminum V8 engine producing 185 horsepower. In 1962, the Skylark became its own model line, available as a hardtop coupe and a convertible. A notable addition for 1962 was the introduction of the first mass-produced American V6 engine, a 198 cubic-inch “Fireball” V6. The 1963 models received boxier styling and an increase in length.

Third Generation (1964–1972)

For 1964, the Skylark was redesigned as a mid-size car on the new GM A-body platform. Engine options included a standard V6 and an optional 300 cubic-inch V8. In 1965, the high-performance Gran Sport (GS) variant was introduced, featuring a powerful 401 cubic-inch “Nailhead” V8. The Skylark received “Coke bottle” styling for 1966 and another facelift in 1967. From 1968, two-door models utilized a shorter wheelbase than four-door models. This generation solidified the Skylark’s place in the muscle car era with various powerful GS models, including the GS 350, GS 400, and the legendary GS 455, which in 1970 produced an astounding 510 lb-ft of torque.

Fourth Generation (1975–1979)

After a brief break, the Skylark returned in 1975 as a compact car based on the GM X-body platform, a response to the growing demand for smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. Initially, the Skylark name was applied to the two-door hatchback and coupe models, while the four-door sedan was called the Apollo. From 1976, all body styles carried the Skylark name. Engine choices included a standard 3.8-liter V6 and optional V8 engines.

Fifth Generation (1980–1985)

The 1980 model year marked a significant shift for the Skylark, as it was redesigned as a front-wheel-drive car on the new GM X-body architecture. This generation was offered as a two-door coupe or a four-door sedan. For the first time, a four-cylinder engine was offered, a 2.5-liter “Iron Duke,” alongside an optional 2.8-liter V6. A performance-oriented T-Type trim was introduced in 1982.

Sixth Generation (1986–1991)

Moving to the new N-body platform, the sixth-generation Skylark continued as a front-wheel-drive compact car. The standard engine was the 2.5-liter “Iron Duke” four-cylinder. A performance T-Type trim was available, and in 1988 it was replaced by the Gran Sport (GS) trim. This generation received a facelift in 1989 with a new grille and taillights.

Latest Generation (Seventh Generation: 1992–1998)

The final generation of the Skylark featured a controversial “beak” front-end design. It was available as a two-door coupe and a four-door sedan. The standard engine was a 2.3-liter Quad 4, with a V6 engine also available. A driver’s side airbag became standard in 1993. The pointed grille was replaced with a more conventional design in a 1996 facelift. Production of the Buick Skylark ended in late 1997, with 1998 being its final model year.

Buick Skylark Facelifts and Yearly Updates

Buick Skylark Variants and Features

Throughout its long production run, the Buick Skylark was offered in a wide array of variants to suit different tastes and needs. Early models were the epitome of luxury, with plush interiors and a host of standard power features. The Gran Sport (GS) variants of the muscle car era offered thrilling performance with powerful V8 engines and heavy-duty suspension. Later generations focused more on comfort and economy, with trims like the T-Type offering a sportier driving experience. Interiors ranged from luxurious all-vinyl upholstery in the early years to comfortable cloth seats in the later models. Standard features in later generations included amenities like air conditioning and a tilt steering wheel.

Buick Skylark Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience

The Skylark’s performance characteristics varied significantly across its generations. The early V8-powered models offered strong acceleration and a smooth, comfortable ride befitting a luxury car. The Gran Sport models of the 1960s and early 1970s delivered exhilarating muscle car performance, with massive torque and impressive horsepower figures. As the Skylark downsized and transitioned to front-wheel drive, the focus shifted to fuel efficiency and practicality. The later four-cylinder and V6 engines provided adequate power for daily driving, with a smooth and composed ride quality. While not as powerful as their predecessors, these later models offered reliable and economical transportation.

Buick Skylark Pricing and Mileage

The original 1953 Skylark was a premium vehicle with a list price of over $5,000. In the mid-1960s, a Skylark Sport Coupe could be purchased for around $2,669. By its final model year in 1998, a Skylark Custom sedan had a starting MSRP of $16,755. Fuel economy varied greatly depending on the generation and engine. The V8 models of the 1960s were not known for their fuel efficiency, with ratings around 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Later models with smaller engines offered significantly better mileage. For example, some owners of 1990s Skylarks reported getting around 25-28 mpg.

Buick Skylark Colors, Design, and Dimensions

The Skylark’s design was a reflection of the automotive styling trends of its time. The early models were characterized by their long, flowing lines and luxurious chrome accents. The 1960s brought the “Coke bottle” styling, while the 1980s saw a shift to more angular, “wedged” designs. The final generation was known for its controversial pointed grille, which was later replaced by a more conventional design. Dimensions also changed dramatically over the years. The early models were large cars, while later generations were more compact. For instance, the 1961 Skylark had a wheelbase of 112 inches, while the 1964 model grew to a 115-inch wheelbase.

Buick Skylark Safety Features

• Airbags: Driver’s side airbag became standard in 1993, with dual airbags available in later models.
• ABS / EBD: Anti-lock brakes (ABS) became standard equipment in 1997.
• Electronic Stability Control: Not available on most models.
• Crash Test Ratings: Not publicly available for most model years.
• Other advanced safety systems: Later models featured three-point seatbelts and a Passlock theft-deterrent system.

Buick Skylark Infotainment and Connectivity

Infotainment systems in the Buick Skylark evolved with the times. Early models featured standard AM radios, with the “Selectronic” radio being a premium option. The 1960s saw the introduction of AM/FM radios. Later generations offered more modern audio systems, but options like touchscreen displays, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were not available during the Skylark’s production run. Connectivity was limited to features like Bluetooth in the final years, if available at all.

Buick Skylark Owner Reviews & Ratings

Owner reviews for the Buick Skylark are generally positive, particularly for the later models’ reliability and comfort. Many owners of 1990s Skylarks praise their dependability and comfortable ride. Common complaints for some model years include issues with power windows and a cramped interior for taller passengers. Despite some weaknesses in styling for certain generations, the Skylark is often remembered as a reliable and practical vehicle that provided good value.

Buick Skylark Comparison with Similar Cars

In its early years as a luxury convertible, the Skylark competed with other top-of-the-line models like the Oldsmobile 98 Fiesta and Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado. During its muscle car phase, it went head-to-head with iconic cars like the Chevrolet Chevelle and Pontiac GTO. As a compact front-wheel-drive car, its competitors included the Chevrolet Citation, Pontiac Phoenix, and Oldsmobile Omega, with which it shared its platform.

Buick Skylark Awards and Recognition

• Motor Trend Car of the Year (1962): The 1962 Buick, including the Skylark with its groundbreaking V6 engine, received this prestigious award.

Interesting Facts about Buick Skylark

• The Skylark was named after the species of bird.
• The 1953 Skylark was one of four “Motorama” show cars that General Motors put into production.
• For a short period between 1977 and 1981, Buick Skylarks were assembled in Iran.

Buick Skylark Legacy and Influence

The Buick Skylark holds a significant place in automotive history as a symbol of American car culture’s evolution. Its ability to transform from a luxurious convertible to a powerful muscle car and finally to a sensible compact demonstrates Buick’s adaptability to changing market demands. The Skylark’s legacy is one of survival and reinvention, making it a beloved classic among car enthusiasts and collectors. It played a crucial role in Buick’s lineup for decades, appealing to a wide range of buyers and leaving a lasting impression on the automotive landscape.

Buick Skylark Global Availability

The Buick Skylark was primarily a North American market vehicle. However, as mentioned, there was a period in the late 1970s and early 1980s when the Skylark was assembled and sold in Iran. For the most part, it was manufactured in the United States and was predominantly available in left-hand drive configuration.

Buick Skylark Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Maintenance and ownership costs for the Buick Skylark vary depending on the generation and condition of the vehicle. Older models, especially the rare early convertibles and high-performance GS variants, can be expensive to maintain and restore due to the scarcity of parts. Later models, with their more common four-cylinder and V6 engines, generally have more affordable maintenance costs. Owners of later generation Skylarks have reported them to be reliable vehicles with routine maintenance. Resale value is highest for the early convertibles and the muscle car era Gran Sport models.

Final Words about Buick Skylark

The Buick Skylark is more than just a car; it is a reflection of the changing American automotive landscape over nearly half a century. From its glamorous beginnings to its practical end, the Skylark consistently offered a blend of style, comfort, and performance that appealed to a broad audience. Its diverse history, encompassing everything from luxurious convertibles to potent muscle cars and efficient compacts, ensures its enduring appeal. Whether you’re a collector seeking a rare piece of automotive history or an enthusiast who appreciates a classic American nameplate, the Buick Skylark offers a compelling story and a rich heritage.