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1960 Buick Electra

The 1960 Buick Electra? Big, bold, and beautiful! A symbol of '60s American prosperity, its fins and chrome were iconic. Part of Buick's top-tier lineup, it offered luxury and power, solidifying Buick's place as a status symbol. Think classic American elegance—a real head-turner.

1960 Buick Electra: A Classic Icon

The 1960 Buick Electra represents a delightful blend of luxury and performance, embodying the peak of American automotive craftsmanship. It's not just a car; it's a story—an echo from a time when cars were works of art and integral parts of pop culture. Classic cars like the Electra are celebrated for their elegant designs and their ability to perform. Those sweeping lines and aerodynamic forms weren't just about looks. They held power under the hood, thanks to the robust Buick V8 engine. Its presence on the road? Simply unforgettable.

Photo of a 1960 Buick Electra

1960 Buick Electra Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Buick Electra Worth?

Original MSRP :$3,495.00

Outstanding

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$29,800

Clean

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$19,900

Average

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$11,100*

Rough

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$6,100

1960 Buick Electra Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 4
Model Number: 4719
Length: 221.2 inches
Width: 80 inches
Height: 59.5 inches
Wheelbase: 126.3 inches
Weight: 4,544lbs
Type: V8, Valve-in-head, Downdraft 4-barrel, Tip-Toe Shift automatic
Displacement: 401.11 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4 3/16 & 3 41/64 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 10.25 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 325@4400
Horsepower Rated: 56.11
Torque: 445@2800
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Engine Number Location: On the right part of block, in front of valve lifter cover.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Carter or Rochester
Type:
24 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Second:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Third:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
Not applicable
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.23 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Coil springs
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 12 inches
Service Rear Size: 12 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 12 inches
Tire Size: 8 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 20 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 6.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:See Additional Information
Total Digits:9
Digits 1:Series
Digits 2:Model year
Digits 3:Assembly plant
Digits 4-9:Production number
Tampico Red, Pearl Fawn Metallic, Silver Mist Metallic, Arctic White, Turquoise Metallic, Tahiti Beige, Gull Gray Metallic, Casino Cream, Lucerne Green Metallic, Chalet Blue Metallic, Titian Red. Metallic, Cordovan Metallic, Verde Green Metallic, Midnight Blue Metallic
Sedan: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Power Seats: Opt
Power Vent Windows: Opt
Radio: Opt
Flightomatic Automatic Transmission: Opt
Dual Exhaust: Opt

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History of the 1960 Buick Electra

Buick's Electra line, particularly the Electra 225 variant, celebrated a design that was sophisticated yet undeniably powerful. It was about engineering with a style that still captures imaginations today. But it wasn't just about the looks. Features like power windows and plush interiors seemed luxurious and innovative for their time, making the Electra a highly sought-after classic.

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Cultural Impact

The Buick Electra wasn't just a car; it was a cultural symbol. You might remember spotting it in films and TV, like the "Buick-Electra Playhouse" series that ran from 1959 to 1960, showcasing the car's glamorous side. It's got a vintage vibe that speaks of the 1960s' opulence and technological brilliance.

Notable Owners of Classic Cars

Steve Plunkett

Among the notable owners is Steve Plunkett, a Canadian collector with a penchant for vintage Cadillacs. Owning a 1960 Buick Electra since 2009, his passion is rooted in childhood memories of a neighbor's car—proof that owning such a classic is more than a transaction; it's a page of personal history written in chrome and steel.

Vern Jorgensen

Vern Jorgensen's tale gives a glimpse into the unconventional routes of owning a classic—a barter deal involving cash and all the eggs and chickens he could offer! It's these unique stories we live for, right? They remind us that classic cars do more than transport us; they capture our own stories.

Other Famous Figures

While the Electra shines bright, it's not the only classic gracing garages of the rich and famous. There's a list of celebrities with enviable collections that includes names like Jay Leno, who is renowned for his eclectic assortment of classic cars, each with their own unique history and appeal. These collections serve as a testament to the undying allure of cars that transcend the function and enter the realm of art.

1960 Buick Electra Gallery

Photo of a 1960 Buick Electra
Photo of a 1960 Buick Electra
Photo of a 1960 Buick Electra
Photo of a 1960 Buick Electra
Photo of a 1960 Buick Electra
Photo of a 1960 Buick Electra
Photo of a 1960 Buick Electra

Price Records and Market Value

How much would you pay to own a slice of history? Well, the 1960 Buick Electra has seen prices soar—up to $275,000 for select models, reflecting its high status among classic cars. These numbers are not just about the car's worth; they reflect a market rich in emotional and nostalgic value.

Performance and Speed Records

Underneath that polished chrome and sleek lines lies a beast with a 0-60 mph time of about 10 seconds. It stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of its time, flashing speeds that thrill even today.

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Classic cars are not just vehicles; they're a passage through time, an art form, and perhaps most importantly, a part of someone's unforgettable adventure. Remember, the more you know about your car's journey, the smoother your ride will be. You'll want to dig into a or a to get all those juicy historical details.

Keeping that passion for classic cars alive means not just owning them but cherishing their stories. It's about understanding where they've been, envisioning where they could take you, and ensuring you're ready for the ride.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Oh boy, the '60 Electra? It's a real head-turner, let me tell you. Think big, really big—that's the key. We're talking about a full-sized land yacht, a true American classic. You'll spot those iconic swept-back fins, a hallmark of the era, and a massive chrome grille that's practically a statement piece. The body itself is, well, it's just huge, and it's got that unmistakable Buick style; you know, that smooth, elegant look that just screams 'classy'. Under the hood, you'd typically find a powerful V8, and let me tell you – these things could really move! It's like driving a sofa – comfortable and powerful. Inside? Expect generous space, plush upholstery, and all the creature comforts you'd expect from a luxury car of its time. Truly a car that made a statement back then, and still does today.

The 1960 Electra wasn't shy about power. You'll mostly find it rocking a sizable V8, typically a 401 cubic inch nail-head V8; however, there were other options available, but the 401 was the most popular, a real workhorse that delivered a healthy punch of horsepower. Think of it like choosing between two delicious steaks – both are great, but one’s simply the star of the show. Some models might have slightly different variations or outputs based on trim level but yeah, it was big, powerful, and you could reliably feel the torque – seriously. If you find one with a different engine, though, it's probably been swapped, which isn't unheard of with these classics. People get creative!

The 1960 Buick Electra, in its time, was a serious contender in the luxury car market. It competed head-to-head with other big American names like the Cadillac and Imperial. It was a stylish alternative, and its size and powerful engines helped it stand out. Compared to something like a smaller Ford, it was a different beast entirely. We’re talking a significant difference in both size and luxury features. Think of it as choosing between a luxury cruise ship and a speedboat – both get you to your destination, but offer totally different experiences. In short, it was big, luxurious, and it offered a very distinct driving experience. Lots of chrome, lots of power, and tons of style.

Like any classic car, the 1960 Buick Electra has its quirks; some things you just gotta expect. It's not uncommon to encounter issues with the braking system—things like brake lines and wheel cylinders can wear out and be rather pricey to overhaul. The electrical system can also be a bit temperamental, (old wiring is just that, old), so be prepared for some troubleshooting there, and yeah, you might have to deal with some carburetor issues. They’re just like old grumpy friends, they can be a bit stubborn. Parts are also becoming harder to find which could cost you in repairs. It’s something you gotta consider when taking the plunge into restoring a vintage car.

Determining the value of a '60 Electra is tricky; it really depends on the car's condition and originality, you know how it is. A well-maintained, numbers-matching (that means all original parts) example in excellent condition might fetch a pretty penny – think of it as a really nice piece of art, it can really be valuable. However, one that needs some restoration work will obviously cost you far less. If you're aiming for a fully restored example, you're looking at a potentially very high price tag; it’s an investment, for sure. To be honest, figuring out the price of an old car is tricky – a bit like guessing what someone would pay for an antique clock; it all depends on condition, rarity, and who’s buying! Websites like Hagerty can provide some average value estimations based on condition, so doing your research first is a smart idea.