The answer to “Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have a Buick,” as the slogan once said, was yes. At least that was the case in 1970, if you wanted both upscale luxury and hot performance. The car here was built for somebody right at the top, a “brass hat” factory executive demonstrator assembled with added care from its start. When the model year had completed, it was also one of only two Aqua Mist convertibles currently documented with the factory 455 Stage 1 power package, as well as one of just 26 big-block convertibles produced in Aqua Mist poly and one of a mere 29 big-block convertibles produced with the forced Comfort-Flo ventilation system.

Originally sold at Smyly Buick in Massachusetts and recently shown within the 1970 Buick Stage 1 display at the invitation-only Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals show in November 2021, this wonderful car has benefited from a no-expense-spared, rotisserie restoration. That effort was completed in 2021 and included many NOS parts. The 455 under the hood was Buick’s “Apollo rocket” of this era, showing an underrated 360 HP and 510 lb-ft of torque on paper and black streaks on the tarmac. With its fresh air hood induction, 10.5 compression, special internals and dual pipes (now a Gardner exhaust system), the Stage 1 was tamed only by right-foot discretion. The TH400 3-speed automatic transmission and mandated performance differential backed it up.

The conservatively toned Aqua Mist Poly paint blends perfectly with a Pearl White interior and power-operated white top. Inside are bucket seats and the center console with grab-handle shifter, power steering and brakes, a tilt steering wheel, the AM/FM Sonomatic radio, gauge-type instrumentation, a tinted windshield, remote driver’s side mirror, carpet savers, handy mats and the convenience lighting group. The exterior wears discreet GS and Stage 1 identification, while a set of chrome-plated wheels touch down with Firestone Wide Oval F70-14 tires. Documentation here includes a Sloan Museum VIN report, build sheet, Protect-O-Plate and a title history dating back to 1976.

1970 Buick GS 455 Stage 1 convertible is finished in Aqua Mist over Pearl White interior with white power vinyl roof.

This "Brass Hat" demonstrator has had a no-expense-spared rotisserie restoration in 2021, which included NOS parts.

Documented with the Sloan Museum report and Window Sticker.

Displayed in the Class of 1970 Buick Stage 1 display at the by-invitation-only Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals in Rosemont, Il., November 2021.

Originally sold by Smyly Buick.

The Stage 1 engine was reported to produce 360hp from the factory, where actual tests proved output was closer to 425hp. However, the 510 ft/lbs of torque was enough to earn the reputation as one of the top five fastest muscle cars in 1970.

The engine is paired with a Turbo 400 3-speed transmission and a posi-traction rear end.

Interior attributes include: a full-length center console, bucket seats, power steering and brakes, and a tilt steering wheel.

Finishing off with instrument gauges,Sonomatic radio and a convenience group, trunk light, mirror and map light. Riding on Firestone Radial tires on Buick Rallye wheels.

‍