For Sale: 1979 Buick Electra in Lithia Springs, Georgia

Always Buick's top-of-the-line, the Electra was downsized in the late '70s but that doesn't mean it lost its style. In fact, looking at this very well preserved 1979 Buick Electra coupe, there's an argument to be made that the big Buick learned a few new moves in the entertainment department, because this is a fun car to drive.

"Downsizing" isn't quite the right word for the redesigned Buicks, because this is still a VERY big car. Even in coupe form, the Electra was one of the biggest machines on the road and lost none of its luxury car presence. The squared-off bodywork was very much in fashion at the time and it has held up quite well over the last 40 years because it's still quite attractive. It was repainted some years ago and shows some age and touch-ups, but at this price, perfection isn't really part of the equation. On the other hand, you're getting a car that doesn't have issues and can be used immediately; in fact, you'll probably find a lot of people remember these cars fondly and you'll quickly become the center of attention. The white paint isn't exciting, but it's appropriate on a Buick and the burgundy half roof adds a touch of elegance. Nice chrome, four "portholes" in the front fenders, and full-width taillights remind us that this is 100% Buick.

The red velour interior shows the typical fading that plagued GM upholstery of the period, but it's intact and still presentable. There are a few thin spots on the driver's seat, but no rips or splits and it's sill comfortable to sit there for a few hours. Red is tough to maintain in the hot sun where this car is from (which explains the super clean underbody) so all the red parts are showing their age. On the upside, everything seems to work, including the A/C which still has R12 coursing through its veins. As a top-of-the-line Buick, everything was standard, including power windows and locks, a tilt steering column, cruise control, and an updated AM/FM/CD stereo in the original radio's slot. The gauges are cool, even for '70s GM, although their faces are a bit cloudy. The back seat shows very little wear and as a giant luxury car, of course you get a massive trunk with what appears to be its original spare tire and jack assembly.

Buick was still using Buick engines in 1979, with this one being a 350 cubic inch V8. It's completely stock, right down to the Rochester carburetor and factory HEI ignition system and we have no reason to think that's not factory-applied engine enamel on the block. A chrome air cleaner lid adds a little flash (and might have been factory installed) and there's plenty of evidence of proper service throughout the years. It starts easily, idles smoothly, and pulls the big coupe around with vigor. As a full-sized car, a TH400 3-speed automatic transmission was spec'd and it spins a familiar 10-bolt rear end with highway-friendly 2.73 gears inside, making this a very relaxed cruiser. The suspension is as supple as you'd expect, and it has a new exhaust system aft of the original catalytic converter. Buick Road Wheels look as good here as anywhere else and it sits on right-sized 235/75/15 whitewall radials.

It runs and drives well, so with a little TLC this could be a great cruiser that you just don't see every day. Call today!