Some of the muscle car era’s most desired models exist only in relatively small numbers, resulting in steep values and a tendency of owners to think more of preservation than road time. All of this has led some fans to create “tribute” cars from lesser models, giving them the look and power of the vaunted factory performance model that may seem out of reach or too valuable to drive. This ’71 Buick Skylark is a good example. It…
Some of the muscle car era’s most desired models exist only in relatively small numbers, resulting in steep values and a tendency of owners to think more of preservation than road time. All of this has led some fans to create “tribute” cars from lesser models, giving them the look and power of the vaunted factory performance model that may seem out of reach or too valuable to drive. This ’71 Buick Skylark is a good example. It began as the mid-level Skylark Custom and was then outfitted with a 455-cu.in. engine, a GS scooped hood and the ducted air cleaner to go with it, plus GSX front and rear spoilers. In this case, the engine has been upgraded with aftermarket elements like aluminum cylinder heads and intake manifold, plus headers. Overall, this Skylark appears to represent a sort of “best of” for fans of muscle-era Buicks, while avoiding concerns that could exist over deviating from stock if this were a factory GS or GSX. And, since Buick designated GS in the VIN for 1971, there should be no question or controversy over its status.