I picked up this car on January 2, 1996, from a private seller for the attractive price of $3800. Although the car was in relatively good shape including no dents to the body work, some of the bolts were missing or incorrect, some of the switches didn't work (including an aftermarket power top switch that required immediate attention), and the dual snorkel air cleaner was missing. Since the day I bought it, I have replaced old or incorrect parts, overhauled, tuned, and painted the engine, installed the correct air cleaner (which I finally located after over a year of searching), dropped in a new trunk pan to replace the badly rusted original one, and am gradually bringing it back to its original glory. Although the original color of the car was Bittersweet Mist (a sort of orange), I prefer the current black paint and think that it contrasts well with the white interior and top. The restoration is not yet complete, but it is a great way to spend a lazy Saturday afternoon.
The previous owner had used this car as a weekend driver, and I gladly continue the tradition. It is perfect for pulling out on those sunny weekend days and just cruising to the beach or to the mall.
The true attraction of this car comes from its rarity, especially when you consider that it is one of only 656 GS Convertibles with the 350 cid engine built for 1971 (and only 1 of 599 with the 350 and automatic transmission). Not that that makes it a 1970 GSX Stage 1 or anything, but at least I won't be lost in the crowd. Besides, driving with the top down, your troubles seem to just melt away. It is a perfect car to take cruising, or to dust that annoying Toyota on the freeway ... what more can you ask for in a vehicle?
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