USA vs USA — 1953 vs 1965
| Skylark Convertible | Skylark GS Stage 1 400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 188 hp | 345 hp |
| Torque | 330 lb-ft | 440 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,277 cc | 6,555 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 6.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.8 sec | 13.9 sec |
| Weight | 4,350 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,124 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 5,232 mm | 5,067 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,690 | 10,743 |
| Original MSRP | $5,000 | $3,167 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
The 1965 Buick Skylark GS Stage 1 400 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Tracing the evolution of the Buick Skylark from 1953 to 1965 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Buick. The 1965 Buick Skylark GS Stage 1 400 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 345 hp compared to 188 hp, a 157-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Buick Skylark uses a V8 OHV (Nailhead) displacing 5,277 cc, while the Buick Skylark GS relies on a V8 OHV (Buick 400 Stage 1) with 6,555 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Buick Skylark GS Stage 1 400 edges ahead at 6.0 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Buick Skylark GS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 850 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,690 units built, the 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible is considerably scarcer than the Buick Skylark GS's 10,743 examples. On the collector market, the 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible commands a significant premium over the 1965 Buick Skylark GS Stage 1 400, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.