1969 Buick GS 400

Buzz

©2007 Publications International, Ltd. The 1969 Buick GS 400 was the only GM intermediate muscle car that year to feature standard functional hood scoops. Out of 8132 GS 400s produced, 1776 were convertibles. Explore more muscle car images.

Unlike other GM divisions, the 1969 Buick GS 400 did not have a special edition. While Chevrolet introduced special-order super Chevelles, Oldsmobile launched Hurst editions of the 4-4-2, and Pontiac unveiled a pop-culture-inspired GTO, Buick took a different approach.

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Buick, however, wasn't idle. The GS 400 for 1969 came equipped with standard functional hood scoops, a feature absent in its GM counterparts. The "Cool Air" induction system featured a twin-snorkel air cleaner with foam muffs that sealed the scoop openings. According to Buick, this system boosted peak horsepower by eight percent and peak torque by six percent across the rpm range, though the base 400-cid V-8 maintained its 340-bhp rating from 1968.

©2007 Publications International, Ltd. The Stage 1 package delivered 345 bhp, compared to the base 400-cid V-8's 340 bhp. Notice the standard foam air-cleaner muffs that connected to the functional hood scoops.

In 1969, the GS 400 offered more than just the base engine. The new Stage 1 and Stage 2 packages were introduced. Stage 1 increased power to 345 bhp with a high-lift cam, 11.0:1 compression (up from 10.25:1), a specialized carburetor and fuel pump, and larger, low-restriction exhaust systems.

Positraction was standard, and four-speed models featured 3.64:1 gears. The optional three-speed automatic transmission was adjusted for higher shift points and paired with 3.42:1 gears. The rare Stage 2 package pushed output to 360 bhp, thanks to an even more aggressive cam and additional performance upgrades.

Consistent with Buick's reputation, the Stage 1 was powerful yet refined. Even its advertising tagline — "Buick builds a premium performance machine" — exuded sophistication.

"The Stage 1 engine strikes a perfect balance for a supercar," Motor Trend noted. "Its power is readily accessible for street driving, particularly when you engage all four barrels. The downshifting acceleration delivers a thrilling push into your seat. A standout feature is its smoother idle despite the large cam, making it less rough compared to other supercars with similar cam profiles."

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The 1969 Buick GS 400

Specifications

Wheelbase, inches: 112.0

Weight, lbs: 3,550

Number built: 8,132

Base price: $3,181

Top Available Engine

Type: ohv V-8

Displacement, cid: 400

Fuel system: 1 x 4bbl.

Compression ratio: 11.0:1

Horsepower @ rpm: 360 @ 5800