For Sale: 1969 Buick Skylark in Concord, North Carolina

This 1969 Buick Skylark Custom is a pretty cool classic. It has an upgraded 455ci V8 for serious power. And the bold paint and sleek hardtop style continue this muscle car vibe. But there's also that bright style and premium feel that makes you want a Buick for its solid cruiser attitude.

This was arguably the best year for the Skylark's design. Swoopy sheet metal and sharp ends came together for the kind of intricate design they wouldn't dare try today. The factory-correct Signal Red was updated later in life so that it allows the sunlight to highlight all these intricate design pieces and the well-fitting panels with a nice clearcoat luster. This has the right amount of chrome in all the right places. The brightwork on the bumper and grille surround the angular front, and in the back, the bumper helps give this coupe a wing-swept look. It's a total package that has the aggression of a Grand Sport, right down to the Rallye wheels. But there's also some elegance in the overall impression, and that makes this feel extra-special.

The Pearl white inside completes the factory-correct color package. The bright glow of this interior against the vibrant exterior is the kind of attractiveness that will have you keeping all the windows down on this pillarless hardtop. There are newer items like the carpeting and dash pad. And you also have nice details like the working sail panel lights and clear gauges. Overall, it has a good classic look in a package that you won't be afraid to enjoy. You've got nice cruising features like an AM/FM digital tuner with cassette, and there are provisions for factory air conditioning (it will need servicing to blow cold again.) And while two wide bench seats are great to let everyone spread out and find their own space, the driver always has a command position. That's why you have a fold-down center armrest, wood-rimmed Buick sports steering wheel, and auxiliary readouts under the dash.

This one is going to get even more Grand Sport references the moment you open the hood. The Buick's big red block has a true muscle car look, and the 455 callout on the air grabber confirms you've got the largest one they made. This big block inhales deeply with a four-barrel carburetor, and it exhales with a great tune from the dual exhaust. And because it's a Buick you'll also appreciate that it fires up easily, idles well, and drives out nicely - like a proper cruiser should. The stout but smooth TH400 stout three-speed automatic transmission sends power to a 12-bolt rear end. Add in power steering, power brakes, and wide Goodyear Eagle GT tires, and you've got a great anytime driving package.

This Skylark has a classic elegance and a GS-level of power. That's what makes it a terrific hardtop that you know you need to get your hands on right now.