In 1961, the Buick Skylark returned as part of the compact Special line, but it was far from basic. You got sporty lines, bucket seats and an aluminum V-8 engine — the kind of setup that let you feel like you were getting something a little fancier without going full luxury. By 1964, the Skylark stood on its own as a mid-size car, and by 1965 it had a high-performance cousin in the Gran Sport. It was big, fast and bold, with engine options pushing up into muscle car territory.
Like a lot of American cars, the Skylark bulked up through the ’60s and then started shrinking in the ’70s. After the fuel crisis hit, Buick downsized the Skylark in 1975 to fit into the compact category. It still offered some style and comfort, but by then the priorities were changing — buyers were more interested in gas mileage and practicality than raw horsepower.
In the 1980s, the Buick Skylark ditched rear-wheel drive and got a complete redesign. It became front-wheel drive, more angular, and leaned hard into the economy car segment. Buick still tried to keep it upscale where it could, with features like velour seats, digital clocks, and chrome trim, but it was a different kind of car by then. By the time the 1990s rolled around, the Skylark had smoothed out again, with curvier bodywork and a more aerodynamic look. It was still hanging on in the lineup until 1997, when it quietly disappeared.
Below, we’ve pulled together some vintage ads, promotional photos and brochures that show how the Buick Skylark changed from one era to the next. From the early ’60s convertibles to the sculpted ’90s sedans, it’s a look back at a car that kept adapting to the times — and maybe reminds you of one you (or your parents) once drove.
1961: Buick announces the Skylark
After hours: Limited Edition Buick Skylark (ad from 1961)
When day is done and your Skylark calls, get set for wonderful things. The minute you escape into its magic world, you’re free of the bonds of the ordinary.
As you sit in its inviting bucket seat interiors* or admire the Landau lines of its roof (available with smart fabric overlay*). As you challenge the wind with its exciting Aluminum V-8 — the Skylark is pure joy. But it’s a limited edition car, so make your move now.
Buick announces the Skylark Convertible! (1962)
Exhilarating as the first, fresh breath of spring — the daydreamy new Skylark convertible. Buick’s happy-medium-size version of top-down adventure surrounds you with a luxurious vinyl interior. Front bucket seats. Automatic top.
And how this light-hearted beauty moves! With its flashing 190-h.p. aluminum Skylark V-8 engine with a 4-barrel carburetor. And its choice of standard 3-speed transmission, optional Dual-Path Turbine Drive or floor-mounted 4-speed synchromesh stick shift.
Classic ’62 Buick Skylark convertible
1964 Buick Skylark
DON’T MISS: See 24 old car bench seats so comfy, sitting on one felt like you were driving a sofa
1965 Buick Skylark Gran Sport
’66 Skylark Gran Sport
1967 Buick Skylark: The language of women
1969 Skylark 2-door
Light your fire: 1970 Buick Skylark Custom Sport Coupe
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1971 Buick Skylark Custom
1972 Buick Skylark 350
We said our Skylark might just be the perfect car for you. (1980)
We didn’t realize how many of you there are. A little over a year ago, when our new Skylark made its debut, we knew it had all the things it needed to be a very popular item.
Front wheel drive. Clean, classy lines. Impressive mileage. Lots of room.
The 1983 Buick Skylark
Can you find the economy car in this picture? As unlikely as it seems, you’re looking at it. That stylish Buick Skylark.
For, in spite of its good looks, comfortably appointed interior and generous room for five, Skylark definitely falls into the economy category. As far as mileage estimates go. (Estimated highway: 42; EPA estimated MPG: 27)
But, between fill-ups, you’ll probably completely forget that Skylark is an economy car. You see, one of the nicest things about the economy car in our picture is that nobody pictures it as an economy car. Go see the 1983 Buick Skylark at your Buick dealer’s now. Buckled up, of course.
Use estimated MPG for comparison. Your mileage may differ depending on speed, distance, weather. Actual highway mileage lower. Some Buicks are equipped with engines produced by other GM divisions, subsidiaries, or affiliated companies worldwide. See your Buick dealer for details. Official Car of the XXIIIrd Olympiad Los Angeles 1984
86 Buick Skylark cars
1987 Buick Skylarks
In a world of computers, robotics and electronics, Buick is still very good at golf clubs, suitcases and grown-up bodies.
The ’89 Buick Skylark: A little limousine
1992 Buick Skylark cars – Street art
1992 Skylark: A lasting impression for the nineties
1995 Skylark. It makes our world a more secure place
