Buick LeSabre (1st generation)
The dawn of the Delta Wing era and the birth of a Buick legend.
- Power
- 250 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.0 s
- Top speed
- 115 mph
- Est. value
- $12k–$32k
About the Buick LeSabre
Introduced in 1959 to replace the Special, the LeSabre debuted Buick's radical new design language featuring 'Delta Wing' slanted tailfins and a square chrome grille. It sat on a new semi-perimeter frame and was powered by the 364 cubic-inch 'Nailhead' V8, which provided smooth, effortless torque typical of the era's luxury cruisers. While it was the entry-level model in Buick's hierarchy, it shared the same dramatic styling and massive 123-inch wheelbase as the mid-range Invicta. Today, the 1959 model is highly prized by collectors for its one-year-only styling details and quintessential Space Age aesthetic.
Buick LeSabre specs
The Buick LeSabre produces 250 bhp (186 kW) and 521 Nm (384 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.0 seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | LeSabre |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 6.0 |
| Years | 1959–1960 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $2,800 when new |
| Engine | 6.0-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,965 cc (6.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 250 bhp (186 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 521 Nm (384 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 11.0 s |
| Top speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Transmission | 2-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,918 kg (4,228 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 130 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 LeSabre worth?
A typical Buick LeSabre is estimated to be worth $12,000 – $32,000 (about £9,200 – £24,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,800.
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 LeSabre rarity in CarSpot
The Buick LeSabre is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 30 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 LeSabre fun facts
- The LeSabre name was borrowed from Harley Earl's famous 1951 GM Le Sabre concept car, which had toured the Motorama circuit for years.
- The 1959 Buicks featured a unique 'Red Liner' speedometer, which used a moving red ribbon rather than a traditional needle to indicate speed.
- Despite its entry-level status, the 1959 LeSabre came standard with massive 12-inch finned aluminum brake drums, which were among the best in the industry at the time.