A Piece of American Automotive History
Offered for sale is a 1965 Buick Electra 225 Custom Convertible in exceptionally well-documented condition. The Electra 225 Custom was the flagship of Buick's full-size range, positioned above the Wildcat within the GM hierarchy. Among collectors, the third generation (1965–1966) is regarded as particularly desirable from a design-history perspective — it was also the last series powered by the legendary Buick "Nailhead" V8. Only 8,508 examples of the 1965 Custom Convertible were ever built.
History
The car spent over 35 years in the hands of its first owner in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (USA). During that time, approximately 2,500 documented hours of work went into its preservation and restoration — always retaining the original color combination of Astro Blue Metallic (Buick "Astro Blue Poly") over a black interior with a white top. The accompanying files document the history without gaps from 1986 onwards: restoration invoices from renowned US specialists (The Buick Farm, Steele Rubber Products, CARS Inc., among others), paint records in the original factory color, engine work (camshaft, lifters, pushrods, gasket sets), as well as the car's later relocation to Germany including full re-registration inspection.
Drivetrain
- Buick Nailhead V8, 401 cui (6,554 cc), 197 kW / 268 hp
- 3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic TH400 automatic transmission
- Odometer reading approx. 12,772 miles (≈ 20,500 km)
- Engine test run confirmed by the appraiser: immediate throttle response, no operational leaks
Condition
Classic Data appraisal with an overall condition grade of 2+ (good, with only minor signs of use): all-steel body free of damage, dents or deformation; paintwork without scratches; all trim and attachment parts original and correctly fitted; no deferred maintenance. Positive German historic vehicle certification per § 23 StVZO (TÜV NORD, 02/2021); most recent roadworthiness inspection by TÜV SÜD in 05/2023 with no defects found. Registered with German historic H-plates.
Equipment
- Factory air conditioning (Frigidaire, converted to modern refrigerant)
- 4 power windows and power vent windows
- Power-operated convertible top (white)
- Power steering and power seat adjustment
- Original AM factory radio with period-correct appearance
- Burl wood dashboard, chrome trim in original condition
- 15-inch steel wheels with chrome center caps and whitewall tires
- Strato bench seat with folding center armrest
- BCA badge (Buick Club of America) on the grille
Documentation
All records will be made available to the buyer for inspection prior to purchase:
- Classic Data valuation report (condition 2+)
- TÜV NORD historic vehicle certificate per § 23 StVZO and re-registration inspection per § 21 StVZO
- TÜV SÜD roadworthiness inspection 05/2023 (no defects)
- Complete restoration and maintenance files from the USA (1986–2020) and Germany
- US collector car insurance policy with agreed value
A video of the running engine is embedded in this listing and conveys the smooth running condition of the V8.
Viewing & Contact
The car is kept in an enclosed garage in Munich, Germany, and can be viewed by appointment. Test drives are available for qualified prospective buyers by prior arrangement.
