This Buick muscle car was a performance powerhouse that looked as good as it sounded. Along with the GS 455 package, one could also have it equipped with what Buick called the “Stage I” option. This optional package consisted of 10.5:1 compression pistons, high-lift camshaft, special four-barrel carburetor, low restriction dual exhaust and a positive traction rear axle. All of these performance upgrades brought the horsepower to 360, and the torque was rated at 510, at 2,800-RPMs.

According to the window sticker this Stage I Buick was equipped with a full length console, power disc brakes, power steering, Sonomatic radio, super wide oval white billboard lettered tires, chrome plated wheels, Rallye ride control package, air conditioning, speed alert, tinted windshield, door guards, remote control mirror, tilt steering wheel, instrument gauges, Rallye clock, protective side moldings, protective fender moldings, Rallye steering wheel and custom vinyl roof covering. The window sticker also lists custom trim, which included bucket seats, rear courtesy lamps, deluxe arm rests, cushion foundation, compartment shelf, rear custom seat and interior door panel emblem.

Please note that the original 455 engine, Turbo-Hydramatic 400 transmission and Posi-traction differential are not currently installed in the car; but they are included with the purchase of the vehicle. An improved 455 engine, new transmission and new differential were installed to preserve the original equipped drivetrain.

The engine that is equipped in the car today is a 1976 455-cid “blue-block” that has been magnafluxed and bored to 464-cid. The big block oiling modifications are complete; and the rotating assemble has been balanced. Equipped on the car is an Edelbrock Performer 455 Buick intake manifold with a Quick Fuel Technologies SS 750-cfm carburetor. The spark for the ignition is supplied by a MSD Pro-Billet plug and play distributor and a Blaster 2 ignition coil. The low restriction performance exhaust was built by Gardner exhaust and is said to be concours correct down to the zinc coating. The stock cast iron exhaust manifolds are equipped. Making sure the engine stays at the correct operating temperature is a high performance water pump, Griffin aluminum radiator and a BeCool radiator shroud with dual 14-inch fans.

Transferring power to the rear wheels is a Jim Pauket transmission that has been built to handle plenty of torque. It also features a custom torque converter. Enhanced Performance Transmission installed a Gear Vendor on the tail shaft of this Turbo-Hydramatic 400 transmission. This makes six total gears available. Connecting the transmission and rear differential is a 3-inch aluminum driveshaft with 1350 U-joints. The rear differential was built by DTS using a GM housing with 3-inch welded axle tubes and 30-spline Moser axles and a Gen II Eating posi and Richmond 3.08 gear.

The paint and body work that took place during the restoration was completed by Don Ivens Restorations in Battle Creek, Michigan. Don Ivens used NOS parts to replace fenders, the right quarter panel, radiator core support and grille. The inner fenders were replaced using parts sourced from a rust free California car. The trunk floor was replaced using a reproduction piece from Year One. The paint it is presented in today is Fire Red.

This completely restored Buick has been under the care of the same owner for over 30 years. The restoration was completed per the original window sticker, original warranty plate and original glovebox order sheet. All of which are included with this very special Buick. Sources state that in 1970 2,465 Buick GS 455 Stage I cars were built; and limited numbers were equipped with a Turbo 400 transmission.

For a complete listing of the equipment that is equipped on this Buick GS 455 Stage I, contact an Auctions America Car Specialist.