Now that Buick is finally producing a real performance car after several years, the 2012 Regal GS, we thought it'd be interesting to look back on an earlier era when Buick was still a performance-oriented brand. The owner of this 1970 Buick Gran Sport (or GS) has clearly spent plenty of time bringing it back to a state of perfection. He originally bought the car back in 1998 from an owner who did a decent job on the initial restoration. It only came with one upgrade at the time: an Edelbrock performer intake manifold.

It's painted in Aqua Mist Metallic and has an original black interior. Original factory options include a three-speed automatic on the column, a bench seat, a factory GS pack and tinted glass, a rally steering wheel, in-dash tachometer, rear defroster, and an A/C, which has been removed. Some added options include done by the current owner include front discs brakes, a power trunk release, bullet mirrors, and coming soon power door locks. In terms of engine work, the owner basically did a complete performance rebuild of the transmission and engine. The Gran Sport 455 came out in 1970 and came with a standard V8 with 350hp and 510 lb-ft of torque.

In optional Stage I trim it was able to produce 390hp. The car had a supposed top speed of around 105 mph. However, car magazines of the time were doubtful of this and some even rated the engine's output for at least 420hp. The incredible amount of torque the engine produced was also noted for its ability to help spin the tires. Photos courtesy of Steve