Buick Electra (2nd generation)
The pinnacle of early 1960s Buick luxury, defined by its 'Wildcat' V8 and restrained, finless styling.
- Power
- 325 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.8 s
- Top speed
- 115 mph
- Est. value
- $12k–$45k
About the Buick Electra
The 1962 Buick Electra 225 represented a shift towards more conservative, elegant styling following the flamboyant tailfin era of the late 1950s. Built on the GM C-body platform shared with Cadillac, it offered a premium experience with a focus on effortless torque and a 'Cloud Bright' ride quality. The 401 cubic-inch V8, branded as the 'Wildcat 445' for its torque rating, provided smooth acceleration through the unique Turbine Drive transmission. As the flagship Buick, it featured distinctive 'VentiPorts' and a higher level of interior trim than the contemporary LeSabre or Invicta.
Buick Electra specs
The Buick Electra produces 325 bhp (242 kW) and 603 Nm (445 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.8 seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Electra |
| Generation | Second Generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | 6.6 |
| Years | 1961–1964 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $4,000 when new |
| Engine | 6.6-litre 'Wildcat 445' V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,572 cc (6.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 325 bhp (242 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 603 Nm (445 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.8 s |
| Top speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Transmission | 2-speed Turbine Drive automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,100 kg (4,630 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 155 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Buick Electra worth?
A typical Buick Electra is estimated to be worth $12,000 – $45,000 (about £8,900 – £34,000).
Its original price when new was about $4,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Buick Electra rarity in CarSpot
The Buick Electra is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 36 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Buick Electra fun facts
- The '225' suffix originally referred to the car's overall length in inches, though by 1962 it had actually grown slightly to 214 inches.
- The 401 V8 was nicknamed the 'Nailhead' due to its unusually small vertical valves, a design that prioritised high torque over high-RPM breathing.
- The 1962 model year saw the introduction of the 'Invicta-style' grille and the removal of the prominent rear fins found on the 1961 cars.