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1969 Buick Wildcat

The 1969 Buick Wildcat: a big, bold muscle car! Think chrome galore, powerful engines, and that iconic, long hood/short deck profile. A true symbol of '60s American excess, it reflected a confident, somewhat flamboyant era. A classic beauty, even today it turns heads.

Celebrating the 1969 Buick Wildcat: A Timeless Classic

Ah, the 1969 Buick Wildcat! It's not just a car; it's a journey through time—a slice of pure Americana embossed with chrome and horsepower. From its sleek design to its roaring engine, this classic beauty has captured hearts and turned heads for generations. Ready to dive into some nostalgia or maybe learn something new? Here we go!

Photo of a 1969 Buick Wildcat

1969 Buick Wildcat Models:

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

How Much is Buick Wildcat Worth?

Original MSRP :$3,579.00

Outstanding

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$25,400

Clean

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$17,400

Average

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$11,200*

Rough

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$4,500

1969 Buick Wildcat Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 46437
Length: 218.5 inches
Width: 80 inches
Height: 54.6 inches
Wheelbase: 123.2 inches
Weight: 4,071lbs
Type: V8, valve-in-head, Downdraft 4-barrel, Synchro-mesh
Displacement: 430 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4.1875 & 3.9 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 10.25 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 360@5000
Horsepower Rated: 56.1
Torque: 475@3200
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Rochester
Type:
3.5 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
11 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.42 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.61
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.33
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.07 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Coil link
Service Type: Hydraulic, self-adjusting power
Service Front Size: 12 inches
Service Rear Size: 12 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 12 inches
Type: Premium
Tire Size: 8.55 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 25 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4.25 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:464379-100001 and up
Total Digits:13
Digits 1:Make
Digits 2-3:Series
Digits 4-5:Body style
Digits 6:Model year
Digits 7:Assembly plant
Digits 8-13:Production number
Regal Black, Cameo Cream, Polar White, Twilight Blue Metallic, Signal Red, Crystal Blue Metallic, Turquoise Mist Metallic, Lime Green Metallic, Verde Green Metallic, Burnished Brown Metallic, Champagne Mist Metallic, Trumpet Gold Metallic, Burgundy Mist Metallic, Silver Mist Metallic, Embassy Gold Metallic, Antique Gold Metallic, Azure Blue, Sunset Silver Metallic, Olive Beige, Deep Gray Mist Metallic, Copper Mist Metallic, All colors may not be available in all models.
Sport Coupe: Opt
Turbo Hydramatic Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Power Seats: Opt
Radio: Opt
Power Antenna: Opt
Speed Control Device: Opt
Front Disc Rear Drum Brakes: Opt

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History of the 1969 Buick Wildcat

The 1969 Buick Wildcat was the epitome of luxury and performance, exemplifying the best of the Wildcat line's first generation, which kicked off in 1963. With its top-tier TurboHydramatic transmission and a beastly 430 cubic inch V8 pushing 360 horsepower, it powered through the highways as a true symbol of American automotive ingenuity.

Design and Innovation

Its design was a dizzying blend of art deco and futuristic aesthetics, with turbine-inspired chrome rims and an interior that promised luxury at every touch. With innovations like Ultra Cruise and a wide dashboard, it felt more like a spaceship than a car. The Wildcat was built not just for travel but for the experience of traveling.

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Detailed Specifications of the Wildcat

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    Engine: 430 cubic inch V8

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    Horsepower: 360 hp

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    Transmission: TurboHydramatic

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    Performance: 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds

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    Top Speed: Estimated 192 mph

These figures might seem like mere numbers, yet they hold a legacy of speed and style, attracting those with a taste for adventure and elegance.

Famous Figures Who Owned the 1969 Buick Wildcat

Johnny Cash

When you think of icons, Johnny Cash inevitably tops the list. His love for the Wildcat was the stuff of legends. This legendary country music figure wasn't just about music; his classic car collection mirrored his bold style and deep appreciation for designs that stood out.

Prince

Prince—the artist, the enigma, the legend! Among his eclectic tastes was a notable affection for the 1964 Wildcat. Much like his music, the car was expressive, vibrant, and undeniably unique, reflecting his persona beautifully.

Pop Culture Nostalgia

The Buick Wildcat wasn't just owned by celebrities; it shared the screen with many of them. Shows like The Wonder Years and films like Wayne's World featured the Wildcat, cementing its place in pop culture. Its on-screen presence amplified its status as an automotive legend long after it ceased production.

Fun Facts about the Buick Wildcat

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    Television Appearances: Featured in shows like "Starsky and Hutch" and "CSI."

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    Movie Cameos: Spotted in films such as "Wayne's World" and "Falling Down."

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    Auction Highlight Reel: Its formidable presence at auctions continues to draw crowds.

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Navigating the classic car market can be a thrilling yet daunting trip. Whether you're buying or selling, having reliable information is crucial. Vehicle history reports and car build sheets are vital to making informed decisions. Before you make that leap, consider a few essential checks:

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Owning or even just appreciating a classic car like the Buick Wildcat is about embracing a rich history, living through stories and nostalgia. Whether you're a collector or just a fan, the Wildcat holds a timeless appeal that is undeniably magical.

For more information, don't hesitate to explore tools like the to delve deeper into the history of these incredible machines. You never know what fascinating details you'll uncover next!

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Explore Buick Wildcat from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

The '69 Wildcat? A real head-turner, that one! Think massive, almost comically large, chrome bumpers; a long, low profile; and that signature Buick grille – you know, the one that looks like it could swallow a small dog whole. It's instantly recognizable. Inside, you'll find plush, typically vinyl interiors, though you might stumble across a lucky few with leather. But honestly, the biggest giveaway? It's a boat. A beautiful, powerful, gas-guzzling boat of a car. You can't miss it; it's like spotting a woolly mammoth at a picnic – it's just that impressive in its sheer size and presence.

Under the hood, you had some serious options, let me tell ya. The base engine was a pretty healthy 400 cubic inch V8 – enough oomph to get you moving, but not exactly going to win any drag races. But hang on, Buick offered a 430 cubic inch V8 – now that's what I'm talkin' about; smooth power, and plenty of it. Then there was the top-of-the-line 455 cubic inch V8. Whoa, Nelly! That one's a real beast – kind of like a thoroughbred racehorse compared to the others. If you were looking for serious grunt, that's the one to have. These weren't exactly fuel-efficient – let's just say you'd better have a healthy income to support its appetite.

Compared to other muscle cars of the era, the Wildcat wasn't exactly a lightweight, quick-footed champion. It wasn't built for speed demons, though the 455 could definitely move. Think of it this way; it's more of a luxurious cruiser than a track star. It's about comfortable gliding, effortless power rather than screaming acceleration; a Sunday drive kind of car, if you know what I mean. It definitely held its own on the highway, though – a smooth operator.

Like any classic car, especially one of this age, there are potential issues to consider. The biggest headaches tend to be the usual suspects: the engine, the transmission – those always need a close inspection. Rust is also a real enemy of these beauties, especially in areas that see a lot of snow or salt. Check for rust-through, especially in the undercarriage and body panels. Seriously, this is essential. It can also be costly to fix. So, you know, buyer beware. Also, electrical systems can be finicky after all these years; those old components can become temperamental. A good pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic specializing in classic cars is absolutely essential – don't skip this step!

Ah, the million-dollar question! The value of a '69 Wildcat can vary wildly (pun intended!) depending on condition, options, mileage, and overall originality. A well-preserved, low-mileage car in excellent condition can command a fairly hefty price, think tens of thousands of dollars. But a car needing significant restoration might sell for considerably less. Online resources and classic car valuation guides are good places to start your research, but always get an expert opinion to get a real idea of its worth. It's truly like a treasure hunt.