The Car234: Unveiling the 1968 Buick Skylark: A Timeless Classic Rediscovered

The 1968 Buick Skylark was a mid-size car produced by Buick, a division of General Motors. It was the fifth generation of the Skylark and was available in two-door hardtop, four-door hardtop, and convertible body styles.

The Skylark was redesigned for 1968 and featured a new, more angular body style. It was also available with a new 400 cubic inch V8 engine, which produced 325 horsepower. The Skylark was a popular car, and over 100,000 units were produced in 1968.

The Skylark was offered in a variety of trim levels, including the base Custom, the mid-level Deluxe, and the top-of-the-line Electra 225. The Electra 225 came with a number of standard features, including power windows, power brakes, and air conditioning.

68 Buick Skylark

The 1968 Buick Skylark was a significant vehicle in the automotive industry, showcasing advancements in design, performance, and luxury. Its key aspects underscore its enduring appeal and relevance in automotive history:

Style: Angular body, sleek lines
Performance: Powerful 400 cubic inch V8 engine
Luxury: Electra 225 trim with premium amenities
Popularity: Over 100,000 units produced
Availability: Offered in hardtop and convertible body styles
Legacy: Fifth generation of the Skylark nameplate
Competition: Rivaled the Pontiac GTO and Oldsmobile 442
Cultural impact: Featured in films and television shows
Collectibility: Sought after by classic car enthusiasts

These key aspects highlight the 68 Buick Skylark's status as a stylish, powerful, and luxurious vehicle. Its popularity and enduring legacy make it a notable chapter in automotive history, capturing the spirit of American muscle cars and the golden age of motoring.

Style

The 1968 Buick Skylark's angular body and sleek lines were a significant departure from the of previous generations. This new design language reflected the changing tastes of consumers in the late 1960s, who were moving away from the flamboyant styling of the early part of the decade and towards a more sophisticated and understated look.

The Skylark's angular body was characterized by sharp creases and crisp lines, which gave the car a more aggressive and muscular appearance. The sleek lines of the Skylark's body were achieved through the use of a fastback roofline and a long, sloping hood. This combination of sharp angles and sleek lines created a car that was both stylish and aerodynamic.

The Skylark's new design was a critical and commercial success. The car was praised for its stylish looks and its improved performance. The Skylark's angular body and sleek lines helped to make it one of the most popular cars of its era.

Performance

The 1968 Buick Skylark's powerful 400 cubic inch V8 engine was a significant upgrade over the previous generation's engine. This new engine gave the Skylark a significant boost in performance, making it one of the fastest cars in its class.

Acceleration: The Skylark's 400 cubic inch V8 engine gave it impressive acceleration, allowing it to go from 0 to 60 mph in just over 6 seconds.
Top speed: The Skylark's top speed was also impressive, reaching over 120 mph.
Power: The Skylark's 400 cubic inch V8 engine produced 325 horsepower, which was more than enough to power the car's relatively light weight.
Torque: The Skylark's 400 cubic inch V8 engine also produced 460 lb-ft of torque, which gave it excellent low-end power.

The Skylark's powerful 400 cubic inch V8 engine was a major selling point for the car. It gave the Skylark the performance that buyers were looking for in a muscle car.

Luxury

The 1968 Buick Skylark Electra 225 trim was the top-of-the-line model, offering buyers a high level of luxury and comfort.

Interior: The Electra 225's interior was spacious and well-appointed, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The seats were upholstered in high-quality leather, and the dashboard was adorned with wood trim.
Amenities: The Electra 225 came with a long list of standard features, including power windows, power brakes, air conditioning, and a tilt steering wheel. Buyers could also choose from a variety of optional features, such as a sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a premium sound system.
Exterior: The Electra 225's exterior was distinguished by its unique grille, which featured a waterfall design. The car also came with a set of 15-inch wheels and whitewall tires.
Performance: The Electra 225 was powered by a 400 cubic inch V8 engine, which produced 325 horsepower. This gave the car plenty of power for both city and highway driving.

The Electra 225 trim was a popular choice for buyers who wanted a luxurious and well-equipped car. It was also a good value for the money, as it offered a lot of features for a relatively low price.

Popularity

The 1968 Buick Skylark's popularity was undeniable, with over 100,000 units produced. This remarkable achievement underscores several key factors that contributed to the Skylark's success:

Stylish Design: The Skylark's angular body and sleek lines resonated with buyers, offering a fresh and exciting alternative to the competition.
Powerful Performance: The Skylark's powerful 400 cubic inch V8 engine provided impressive acceleration and top speed, appealing to performance-oriented buyers.
Luxurious Interior: The Electra 225 trim offered a high level of luxury and comfort, with premium materials and amenities that attracted discerning buyers.
Value for Money: The Skylark offered a compelling combination of style, performance, and luxury at a relatively affordable price, making it an attractive proposition for buyers.

The Skylark's popularity extended beyond its initial production year, with many units still sought after by collectors and enthusiasts today. Its enduring appeal is a testament to the car's timeless design, impressive performance, and enduring legacy.

Availability

The 1968 Buick Skylark was offered in a variety of body styles, including hardtop and convertible options. This provided buyers with a range of choices to suit their individual needs and preferences.

Hardtop: The hardtop body style was a popular choice for buyers who wanted a stylish and sporty look. Hardtops featured a fixed roof with no B-pillars, giving them a sleek and aerodynamic appearance.
Convertible: The convertible body style was a great choice for buyers who wanted to enjoy the open air and sunshine. Convertibles featured a retractable roof that could be folded down to create a true open-air driving experience.

The availability of both hardtop and convertible body styles made the 1968 Buick Skylark a versatile and appealing choice for buyers. Whether they were looking for a stylish hardtop or a fun and sporty convertible, the Skylark had something to offer everyone.

Legacy

The 1968 Buick Skylark represented the fifth generation of the Skylark nameplate, a legacy that had begun in 1953. This heritage played a significant role in shaping the identity and appeal of the '68 Skylark, contributing to its enduring popularity and recognition.

Established Reputation: The Skylark nameplate had already gained a strong reputation for style, performance, and value over four previous generations. The '68 Skylark benefited from this established legacy, inheriting a loyal customer base and a positive brand image.
Evolution of Design: While the '68 Skylark showcased a fresh and updated design, it retained the essence of its predecessors. The angular body and sleek lines paid homage to the Skylark's heritage while simultaneously introducing a modern and distinctive aesthetic.
Performance Legacy: The powerful 400 cubic inch V8 engine and impressive performance capabilities of the '68 Skylark were in keeping with the Skylark's legacy as a performance-oriented muscle car.
Collector's Value: As a significant milestone in the Skylark's lineage, the '68 model has become a sought-after collector's item. Its historical importance and enduring appeal make it a valuable asset for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The legacy of the fifth-generation Skylark extends beyond its initial production year, influencing subsequent generations of the Skylark and contributing to its enduring status as an American automotive icon.

Competition

The 1968 Buick Skylark faced stiff competition from two other muscle cars of the era: the Pontiac GTO and the Oldsmobile 442. These three cars were often compared to each other in terms of performance, style, and price.

Performance: The Skylark's powerful 400 cubic inch V8 engine gave it a slight edge over the GTO and 442 in terms of horsepower and torque. However, all three cars were capable of impressive acceleration and top speeds.
Style: The Skylark's angular body and sleek lines set it apart from the GTO and 442, which had more rounded and traditional designs. The Skylark's unique styling made it a popular choice for buyers who wanted a car that stood out from the crowd.
Price: The Skylark was priced slightly lower than the GTO and 442, making it a more affordable option for buyers. This gave the Skylark a competitive advantage in the muscle car market.

The competition between the Skylark, GTO, and 442 helped to push each car to its limits in terms of performance and style. As a result, these three cars are considered to be some of the most iconic muscle cars of all time.

Cultural impact

The 1968 Buick Skylark's cultural impact extended beyond its impressive performance and stylish design. It also made its mark on popular culture, appearing in numerous films and television shows throughout the years.

One notable example is the film "Bullitt" (1968), which featured a legendary car chase scene involving a 1968 Buick Skylark. The car's performance and handling capabilities were showcased in the film, helping to solidify its reputation as a powerful and agile muscle car.

The Skylark also made appearances in popular television shows such as "The Rockford Files" and "Starsky & Hutch." Its presence in these shows further cemented its status as an iconic American car, associated with action, adventure, and style.

The cultural impact of the 1968 Buick Skylark is significant because it helped to shape the public's perception of the car. It was seen as a symbol of power, performance, and freedom, and its appearances in films and television shows only served to enhance its popularity and appeal.

Collectibility

The 1968 Buick Skylark holds a special place among classic car enthusiasts, who highly value and actively seek out well-preserved and restored examples. This collectibility is driven by several key factors that contribute to the car's enduring appeal and desirability.

Historical Significance: As the fifth generation of the Skylark nameplate, the '68 model represents a significant milestone in Buick's history. Its unique design, powerful performance, and cultural impact make it a highly sought-after collectible for enthusiasts and historians alike.
Rarity and Exclusivity: The 1968 Skylark was produced in relatively low numbers compared to other muscle cars of the era, making it a rare and exclusive find for collectors. Its limited availability adds to its desirability and value.
Investment Potential: Classic cars, especially those in excellent condition, have proven to be sound investments over time. The 1968 Skylark's increasing rarity and collector demand make it an attractive investment opportunity for enthusiasts.
Nostalgia and Emotional Appeal: For many collectors, owning a 1968 Skylark evokes feelings of nostalgia and connects them to a specific era in automotive history. The car's distinctive style, powerful engine, and cultural significance resonate with enthusiasts on an emotional level.

The collectibility of the 1968 Buick Skylark is a testament to its enduring appeal as a classic muscle car. Its historical significance, rarity, investment potential, and emotional connection make it a highly prized possession among collectors and enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the 1968 Buick Skylark

This section provides answers to commonly asked questions and addresses misconceptions regarding the iconic 1968 Buick Skylark.

Question 1: What sets the 1968 Buick Skylark apart from its predecessors?

The 1968 Skylark marked a significant departure from previous generations with its angular body and sleek lines, showcasing a more aggressive and sophisticated design.

Question 2: What engine options were available for the 1968 Skylark?

The Skylark offered a powerful 400 cubic inch V8 engine, providing exceptional acceleration and top speed, making it a formidable muscle car.

Question 3: What trim levels were available for the 1968 Skylark?

The Skylark was offered in various trim levels, including the base Custom, mid-level Deluxe, and top-of-the-line Electra 225, each with unique features and amenities.

Question 4: How many units of the 1968 Buick Skylark were produced?

Over 100,000 units of the 1968 Skylark were produced, a testament to its popularity and wide appeal.

Question 5: What body styles were offered for the 1968 Skylark?

The Skylark was available in both hardtop and convertible body styles, catering to buyers seeking a stylish and sporty look or an open-air driving experience.

Question 6: How does the 1968 Skylark compare to its rivals?

The Skylark competed with the Pontiac GTO and Oldsmobile 442, offering a comparable level of performance and style while maintaining a competitive price point.

Question 7: What factors contribute to the collectibility of the 1968 Buick Skylark?

The Skylark's historical significance, rarity, investment potential, and emotional appeal among enthusiasts make it a highly sought-after collectible for classic car enthusiasts.

These FAQs provide concise and informative answers to common questions about the 1968 Buick Skylark, clarifying misconceptions and highlighting its notable features and historical significance.

Transition to the next article section: Exploring the 1968 Buick Skylark's Cultural Impact and Legacy

Tips for Maintaining and Enjoying Your 1968 Buick Skylark

Preserving and appreciating the classic 1968 Buick Skylark requires dedication and attention to detail. Here are some valuable tips to guide you:

Tip 1: Regular Maintenance and Servicing

Routine maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your Skylark. Follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule for oil changes, fluid checks, and component inspections. Regular servicing helps detect potential issues early on, preventing costly repairs and ensuring optimal performance.

Tip 2: Protect the Exterior

The Skylark's angular body and sleek lines are a sight to behold. Protect its exterior by washing and waxing it regularly. Consider using a car cover when parked for extended periods to shield it from the elements and preserve its pristine condition.

Tip 3: Preserve the Interior

The Skylark's interior exudes style and comfort. Maintain its elegance by cleaning the upholstery and carpets regularly. Use leather conditioners to protect and nourish the seats, preventing cracks and fading. Avoid smoking inside the car to preserve the fresh air quality.

Tip 4: Enhance the Performance

The Skylark's powerful 400 cubic inch V8 engine is a testament to its muscle car heritage. Consider upgrading the exhaust system to improve airflow and unleash the full potential of the engine. High-performance tires provide better traction and handling, enhancing your driving experience.

Tip 5: Respect its History

The 1968 Buick Skylark holds a special place in automotive history. As a classic car enthusiast, embrace its legacy by researching its background, joining clubs, and attending events. Preserve its originality and avoid unnecessary modifications that may diminish its historical significance.

Tip 6: Find a Trustworthy Mechanic

Entrust your Skylark to a qualified mechanic who specializes in classic car maintenance and restoration. Their expertise ensures that your vehicle receives the proper care and attention it deserves, preserving its value and performance.

Summary: Following these tips will not only maintain your 1968 Buick Skylark in excellent condition but also allow you to fully appreciate its timeless design, impressive performance, and cultural significance. As a proud owner of this automotive icon, you have the privilege of preserving a piece of automotive history while enjoying the exhilarating driving experience it offers.

Conclusion

The 1968 Buick Skylark stands as a testament to the golden age of American muscle cars. Its angular body, powerful engine, and luxurious interior made it a standout in the automotive landscape. Its popularity and cultural impact solidified its place in automotive history.

The Skylark's enduring legacy is a reminder of the passion and innovation that drove the muscle car era. Today, it remains a sought-after classic, cherished by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Preserving and appreciating these iconic vehicles ensures that the spirit of the muscle car lives on for generations to come.