The Barrett-Jackson Inaugural Columbus Auction is arriving at the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds June 25-27, 2026. Out of the many vehicles that will be crossing the block, there will be one special car that plays a key role in Buick performance history: this frame-off restored 1969 Buick GS 400 factory-equipped with the optional Stage 1 engine.
Let’s preface this Gran Sport by looking at the 1967 model year when Buick introduced a new, clean-sheet big-block V-8 design to replace the “Nailhead” 401ci V-8 that had been used since 1965. Measuring 400ci and offering 340 horsepower, this V-8 was distinguished from other contemporaries by its high torque low on the power band: 440 ft-lb at 3200 rpm. For 1968, Buick offered an over-the-counter Stage 1 kit to give enthusiasts more suds in a segment clamoring for attention … and wins.
That kit became a factory offering for 1969, with the Stage 1 bumping up horsepower five to 345 — either way, the torque rating was the same as the standard 400. Important tweaks included a higher-lift camshaft, heavy-duty valve springs, tubular pushrods, special carburetor, 60-psi oil pump, 2¼-inch tail pipes, and a heavy-duty cooling system. Compression was 10.25 (just like the standard 400), and gearing was a generous 3.64 with limited-slip. Standard — and rarely ordered — was a floor-mounted three-speed manual; optional was a four-speed or TH400 automatic modified for higher shift speeds and firmer shift engagement. Like all 1969 Gran Sports, ram air induction was included, something unique in the segment.
Buick built only 1,256 GS 400 hardtops with the Stage 1 engine. Of those, only 415 were built with a four-speed, making this car an unusual find among performance Buicks. Other features on this Buick include bucket seats, console, AM/FM radio, power steering, and power antenna. Finished in Regal Black (one of 181) with a matching vinyl top and bucket-seat interior, this medium-block brawler remains a rare remnant of the first factory Stage 1 produced by Buick.
The upcoming Barrett-Jackson Inaugural Columbus Auction will give you the opportunity to put this Buick in your garage — click here to register to bid. If you’re a dreamer and simply wish to attend, you can purchase your tickets here.
