After a series of unreliable modern cars, I've decided to get something a little older for my next daily driver. I don't like big cars, but need four doors for the kids, RWD, reasonable fuel economy, and enough towing capacity for a lightweight race car. I decided on an '80 Malibu 3.8LV6/3-spd manual. I love the Malibu, but really feel it's not suited as a tow rig and came to the conclusion that I need to upsize a little bit. My search ended with this 1985 Buick Electra Estate Wagon (307/4spd auto): It's bigger than I'd really like, but it should handle everything I need it to do. I'd like to swap in a 4.8L GM truck engine with either a 4L60E or 6-spd manual (if I can find one in my budget) to improve fuel economy, power, and reliability. Not sure after that. Mike
Welcome Mike. That's a nice looking Electra you have there. That should do the job nicely. It should also be a good platform for the future modifications you hope to do. What part of Washington do you call home?
Mike, Welcome to the forums. You have come to the right place if you're looking for info, insight, and a little humor! When you get a chance post some more pictures! We all love pictures!....Longroofs Rule!
Orthmann, I'm on the wet side of the state, near Tacoma. A couple more pics: That deflector is going the way of the dodo... ASAP. The vast majority of everything works, notable exceptions are A/C and the driver's side electric seat. I'm 6' 2" and towered over the petite gentleman that sold it to me. The seat was last adjusted for him and it is virtually undriveable until I fix the seat. It's hard to see in the last picture, but it has a hitch (aftermarket?) and 7 pin trailer wiring connector.
I figered that may be the case. I'm on the dry side. Andrew, AKA Silvertwinkiehobo, is over on that side, but he's in Everett.
Wagon engine swaps are always cool. I hope you get around to doing that and sharing the build / results...
Welcome Darcane. If you can’t live with the deflector don’t $H|+ can it. Save it in case you get rid of the car down the road, or use it for swap material. Actually the deflector is a pretty good piece of equipment. It keeps dirt, dust and rain off the rear window. Plus adds some nice breeze when you can drive with the window down. Just saying.
Glad to have you with us Darcane. Think you made a good choice with the Buick. We have a virtually identical car in our 87 Pontiac and it is surprisingly reliable. Agree with 60Mercman on the deflector, it is actually useful and was well designed.
Wrong deflector... look at the one screwed to the grill. I'm (slowly) building a car to race at Bonneville, and got to Speed Week for this first time this summer as a crew member for a motorcycle rider. I also have some drag racing experience, mostly at the track that my parents own and operate.
Oh that deflector! Yes that has to go. Lol. Sorry bout that. Didn’t even think to re look at the bug deflector.
Yep, looks just like yours. Those wheels look a heck of a lot better than mine. Per the RPO codes, I believe mine should have had aluminum wheels originally.