Buick Wildcat (2nd generation)
A gentleman's muscle car combining Electra luxury with Nailhead V8 power.
- Power
- 340 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 7.8 s
- Top speed
- 124 mph
- Est. value
- $17k–$40k
About the Buick Wildcat
The 1966 Buick Wildcat represents the peak of the 'Nailhead' V8 era, positioned as a sportier alternative to the stately Electra 225. While the 401 cubic-inch engine was standard, the 425 cubic-inch (7.0-litre) 'Wildcat 465' option provided a massive 465 lb-ft of torque, giving this full-sized cruiser surprising urgency. It features a distinctive split-center grille and 'ventiports' that were a Buick styling staple, though the Wildcat often replaced these with unique ribbed trim. Collectors value the 1966 model for being the final year of the classic Nailhead engine architecture before Buick transitioned to a new big-block design in 1967.
Buick Wildcat specs
The Buick Wildcat produces 340 bhp (254 kW) and 631 Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 7.8 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph (199 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Wildcat |
| Generation | Second Generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | 7.0 |
| Years | 1965–1970 |
| Type | Muscle |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $3,200 when new |
| Engine | 7.0-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,970 cc (7.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 340 bhp (254 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 631 Nm (465 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 7.8 s |
| Top speed | 124 mph (199 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,950 kg (4,299 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 174 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 Wildcat worth?
A typical Buick Wildcat is estimated to be worth $17,000 – $40,000 (about £13,000 – £30,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,200.
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 Wildcat rarity in CarSpot
The Buick Wildcat is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 38 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 Wildcat fun facts
- The '465' in the engine name referred to its torque rating in lb-ft, not its displacement, a common Buick marketing tactic of the era.
- 1966 was the only year the Wildcat was offered with the 'Gran Sport' (GS) performance group, which included heavy-duty suspension and a positraction rear axle.
- Despite its performance image, the Wildcat shared its massive 126-inch wheelbase with the flagship Electra 225 from 1965 onwards.