The 68 Buick Lesabre represents a classic sedan from the late 1960s that blends traditional styling with emerging comfort features for its era. Owners and enthusiasts often highlight its smooth ride, available V8 power, and distinctive Buick presence on the road.
This article walks through key details, specifications, and ownership considerations for the 68 Buick Lesabre to help readers understand its place in automotive history and today’s market.
| Model Year | Body Styles | Engine Options | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1968 | 4-door sedan, hardtop | 350 V8, 400 V8, 455 V8 | $3,500–$5,500 new |
| Drivetrain | Transmission | Fuel Type | Key Features |
| RWD | TH-350 automatic | Leaded gasoline | Comfort Control, power options |
| Length | Width | Weight | Seating |
| 219.5 in | 79.0 in | 4,200–4,500 lbs | 6 passengers |
68 Buick Lesabre Engine Performance
Under the hood, the 68 Buick Lesabre offered buyers a choice of V8 engines that balanced everyday driving needs with occasional highway passing power. The 350 V8 provided adequate city performance, while the 400 and 455 variants expanded the options for stronger acceleration and towing capability.
Engine availability varied by trim and market, with higher trims often pairing the 455 with upgraded suspension and interior appointments. Torque delivery from the larger engines made the automatic transmission feel responsive without demanding constant gear changes.
68 Buick Lesabre Comfort and Interior
Buick emphasized quietness and a composed ride in the 68 Lesabre, using soft engine mounts and well-tuned front and rear suspensions. Bench seating in the spacious cabin gave families a comfortable place for long trips, with generous legroom for second-row passengers.
The inclusion of features such as reclining seats, carpeted headliners, and woodgrain accents helped the Lesabre compete with rivals from Oldsmobile and Cadillac in the upper B-segment sedan category.
68 Buick Lesabre Exterior Design and Trim
Externally, the 68 Lesabre showcased Buick’s signature waterfall grille, full-width taillights, and sculpted side panels that conveyed both stability and elegance. Available hardtop versions eliminated the B-pillar for a sleeker look while maintaining structural rigidity through careful engineering.
Trim levels ranged from basic sedans to more ornate packages that added chrome detailing, upgraded tires, and wheel covers, enabling buyers to personalize the sedan without moving to higher-priced models.
68 Buick Lesabre Maintenance and Reliability
Routine maintenance on the 68 Buick Lesabre follows classic GM practices, including regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and attention to the TH-350 transmission. Keeping the cooling system in good condition is especially important because the 455 V8 can develop higher operating temperatures under stress.
Rust protection, quality bushings, and original-spec bearings play a major role in long-term reliability, and many owners report satisfying driving dynamics when the car receives consistent care over the decades.
68 Buick Lesabre Restoration and Collectibility
Restoring a 68 Buick Lesabre often involves sourcing period-correct trim, emblems, and interior materials to preserve its original character. Enthusiasts who complete thoughtful restorations frequently find that the sedan retains value through its rarity in show circuits and its representation of late-1960s Buick engineering.
When evaluating a project car, checking for frame corrosion, verifying matching numbers, and reviewing service records help ensure the restoration remains both historically accurate and cost-effective.
Owning a 68 Buick Lesabre Today
- Review the vehicle’s service history and verify matching numbers where applicable.
- Inspect for rust, especially under the car, in wheel wells, and around the trunk area.
- Confirm that the TH-350 shifts smoothly and check for any transmission fluid contamination.
- Budget for ongoing maintenance, including cooling system care and suspension updates.
- Consider joining Buick clubs or forums to access period-correct parts and expert advice.
FAQ
Reader questions
What are the most common issues with a 1968 Buick Lesabre?
Rust in floor pans and rocker panels, transmission wear in the TH-350, aging electrical systems, and degraded suspension bushings are frequently reported concerns among owners.
How much does a restored 1968 Buick Lesabre typically cost?
Prices for a restored example generally range from $15,000 to $30,000, depending on originality, condition of the interior, and the completeness of mechanical upgrades.
Can I use modern fuel in a 1968 Buick Lesabre?
Yes, you can use modern unleaded gasoline, but adding a fuel stabilizer and periodically running the system helps protect the vintage engine and fuel components.
Is the 1968 Buick Lesabre a good daily driver today?
While it can serve as a nostalgic daily driver, be prepared for lower fuel economy, occasional maintenance, and the need for updated safety adaptations compared to modern standards.