1966 Buick Wildcat
The '66 Buick Wildcat: a big, bold muscle car! Think massive chrome, a powerful engine, and that signature "coke bottle" styling. It was a symbol of '60s American prosperity, a head-turner that perfectly captured the era's vibe. A true classic muscle car with a lasting legacy.
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History of the 1966 Buick Wildcat
Born in the golden age of car culture, the 1966 Buick Wildcat is the epitome of American luxury and performance. Produced by Buick, a General Motors division, the Wildcat was aimed at those who craved both style and ferocity. Its sleek silhouette and plush interiors made it a luxurious choice, while its powerful engine options made sure it performed just as well as it looked【4:2†67ccfb6be62584efcab8a49e.txt】.
Key Features
Engine: The Wildcat roared to life with its robust 401 cubic inch (6.6 L) Nailhead V8 engine.
Design: Featured a long hood, short deck proportions, and a unique front grille.
Gran Sport Variants: 1966 was the year Buick swung for the fences with three Gran Sport options—Skylark, Riviera, and Wildcat【4:2†67ccfb6be62584efcab8a49e.txt】.
1966 Buick Wildcat Models:
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How Much is Buick Wildcat Worth?
Original MSRP :$3,701.00
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1966 Buick Wildcat Specs
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Famous Figures Who Own the Buick Wildcat
The Wildcat isn't just adored by everyday enthusiasts; it's been parked in the garages of some very famous people too. These iconic figures didn't just own cars—they collected them like rare art. Let's take a closer look at some of the notable personalities who couldn't resist the allure of a Wildcat.
Steve McQueen
Steve McQueen, the 'King of Cool' himself, was known for his penchant for speed and style. While he's famously linked to his Ford Mustang from Bullitt, McQueen's vast collection included the 1966 Buick Wildcat, emphasizing his appreciation for powerful cars【4:1†67ccfb6be62584efcab8a49e.txt】.
Bob Hope
Another legendary name, Bob Hope, not only entertained millions with his comedy but also spiced up his rides with sophistication. As a spokesman for Buick, Hope's association added a layer of leisure and class to the Wildcat, reinforcing its image as a symbol of sophistication【4:0†67ccfb6be62584efcab8a49e.txt】.
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The Wildcat in Pop Culture
The Buick Wildcat made quite the splash in pop culture, featuring prominently in films and TV shows. Its bold design and luxury appeal made it a darling on the cinematic screen, adding flair and style wherever it appeared.
Films Featuring the Wildcat
The Wildcat's big-screen appearances include movies like Under the Cherry Moon and Powwow. These appearances helped cement its place not just in car history, but in the broader tapestry of American pop culture【4:3†67ccfb6be62584efcab8a49e.txt】.
Television Shows
The car also stood out on small screens, gracing shows such as Mad Men and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, offering a glimpse into the plush and stylish world of 1960s America【4:3†67ccfb6be62584efcab8a49e.txt】.
Speed Records
You'd be remiss to think that the Wildcat was all about looks—it was quite the performer too! With its Wildcat 445 engine, it was no slouch in the speed department. Imagine cruising down the highway with a top speed of 192 mph, and you've got the essence of the Wildcat in its prime【4:3†67ccfb6be62584efcab8a49e.txt】.
Performance Highlights
0 to 60 mph: Achieved in a nimble 7.6 seconds.
Quarter-Mile: Completed in just 15.9 seconds.
Price Records
So, what'll you have to fork over for one of these beauties today? The average price of a classic 1966 Buick Wildcat floats around $20,784, but prices can skyrocket up to $59,940 depending on condition and rarity【4:1†67ccfb6be62584efcab8a49e.txt】. Bargains do exist; however, one recently sold for under $2,000 in Virginia—a steal for the astute collector【4:1†67ccfb6be62584efcab8a49e.txt】.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The '66 Wildcat? Oh man, it's a real head-turner! You'll instantly recognize it by its long, low profile – seriously sleek, like a greyhound on wheels. Those massive tail fins are unmistakable; they're practically legendary. Plus, the chrome is just everywhere – bumpers, grille, window trim… it's like they dipped the whole car in a chrome bath! Under the hood, you'll likely find a big-block V8 – pure American muscle. It's a real statement piece, you know? A true classic, and that's not just my opinion; everyone knows it.
Now, the engine options... that's where things get interesting. Generally speaking, you're looking at a 401 cubic inch V8, but some were equipped with a 425. That's a serious amount of horsepower! Think of it like this: enough grunt to pull a small house (okay, maybe not a whole house, but a pretty hefty trailer). A few rare birds even sported a 455 but they're not as easy to find. Really, the power options were impressive for its time; it wasn't just a pretty face. Those engines, you could practically hear them purring from a mile away. Some say it's a different beast entirely depending on which engine option it has.
Pricing for these beauties depends heavily on condition, which is something you always have to keep in mind when talking about classic cars. A well-restored Wildcat, it could fetch a decent price – tens of thousands, even. But a car needing some TLC? Well, that price tag can go down considerably. It’s similar to buying a house: location, location, location, and of course, the condition of that car plays a huge role. You'll really want to do your homework before you make a purchase.
Like any classic car, there are things to watch out for. These older Buicks, they can have some quirks. The big-block engines can be thirsty for oil, so make sure to get that checked out. The electrical system can be a bit temperamental sometimes; you might need to replace some components from time to time. And you have to remember to check the suspension and brakes. Basically, these cars, they’re older, so expect some challenges. It's kinda like owning an older house; you're gonna need to put in a bit of work, you know?
Finding parts can be a fun adventure, or a frustrating scavenger hunt, depending on how you approach it! Online forums dedicated to classic Buicks are absolute goldmines; you'll find fellow enthusiasts happy to share advice and parts sources. There are also specialist parts suppliers who cater to classic car restoration, and many junkyards or salvage yards that will have some parts. You just need to know where to look, and what to look for.