Description
The 1959 vintage marks a pivotal year for Buick, whose range, which had not been revamped since 1936, is recomposed. It is now structured around three models that receive new names. The LeSabre, Invicta, and Electra replace the Special, Century, Super, and Roadmaster of the fifties — the Limited having only lived for the 1958 vintage. The LeSabre corresponds to the Special and the Invicta to the Century, while at the top of the range, the Electra replaces both the Super and the Roadmaster. However, the Electra is offered in two body lengths, the standard model (5. 60 meters) and the Electra 225 (for 225 inches, or 5. 72 meters), the brand’s top model. Built on the same 126. 3-inch (3. 21 meters) wheelbase, the Electra comes in sedans, hardtop coupes (without pillars), convertibles, and station wagons. In 1962, the standard version will be discontinued and all cars will be 225s.
Under the hood of the Electra roars the Wildcat 445 V8 (referring to the 445 pound-feet of torque). With a displacement of 401 c. i. (6572 cm3), it develops 325 hp and especially the colossal torque of 61. 4 mkg. The enormous ‘wildcat’ engine also powers the Invicta. It goes without saying that the Electra benefits from the most sophisticated equipment, including notably power brakes and steering. The (very generous) power will remain stable until 1966, even though a 425 c. i. (6966 cm3) V8 will be available in 1964. Offering 340 hp, or even 360 hp, the latter will only be delivered as an option.
The extent of its proportions, the sobriety of its decoration, and the airy elegance of its rear end give the 1959 Electra 225 unparalleled majesty. While the hyper-panoramic windshield with an S-shaped profile appears extravagant, the grille, soberly adorned with a carpet of chrome rectangles, finds its place without ostentation between the two lines of the hood and the bumper. And the presence of oblique headlights housed under the wings lightens the rigor of the lines.
The style of the 1960 vintage is a reworking of the previous year’s design. While it retains the same approach, it loses some of its sharpness and rigor. Also some of its vigor with the trimmed fins. The silhouette, with its rather complex relief, also seems less convincing. But the stripped-down front end remains superb despite the horizontal and more orthodox position of the headlights.
This example has been fully restored and shows no defects. It came out of restoration in 2024.
Completely disassembled and repainted (originally a white car)
Transmission redone
Many new parts
Everything is functional, except the radio
Original seats, new carpets
Valuated at €60, 000
