USA vs USA — 1953 vs 1959
| Skylark Convertible | LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 188 hp | 325 hp |
| Torque | 330 lb-ft | 410 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,277 cc | 6,571 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 9.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.8 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 4,350 lbs | 4,200 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,124 mm | 3,150 mm |
| Length | 5,232 mm | 5,562 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,690 | — |
| Original MSRP | $5,000 | $3,280 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 4/10 |
The 1959 Buick LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible counters with 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.
Within the Buick stable, the 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible and 1959 Buick LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Buick badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1959 Buick LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead holds a clear advantage in raw power with 325 hp compared to 188 hp, a 137-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 LeSabre relies on a V8 OHV (Buick 401 Nailhead) with 6,571 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1959 Buick LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead edges ahead at 9.5 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible commands a significant premium over the 1959 Buick LeSabre Custom 401 Nailhead, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.