Buick Electra 225, Yellow, for sale in Charlotte, North Carolina, for $13,995.

In terms of maximum car for the minimum price, it's hard to beat this handsome 1969 Buick Electra 225 convertible. Originally named in honor of the car's overall length (225 inches), this Electra represents Buick's top-of-the-line in '69, and it is loaded with options like A/C, power windows, and a muscular 430 cubic inch V8 that moves all 225 inches effortlessly down the highway.

Finished in unusual Trumpet Gold, this big Buick ragtop looks about a mile long. With four ventiports in the fenders, you know it's a senior Buick, and the crisp line extending from the front fender to the rear bumper is a tip of the hat to cars like the 1953 Skylark. The car appears highly original and nicely preserved, most certainly usable as-is. The gaps are good, the panels line up well, and there are no issues in the rockers or quarters that would suggest hidden problems. The chrome-and there's a lot of it, even on a '69 Buick-is good, and the grille is undamaged. Also note cool luxury details like the cornering lights in the front fenders that illuminate at night when you hit the turn signals, and the deck-mounted power antenna.

The interior is in similar condition, clean and intact, with all the original details remaining in place. Dig the tooled door panels, the comfortable bench seat, and that back seat that'll handle three friends for a cross-country trip. It appears to be highly original, and shows wear that you'd expect after 42 years, but nothing that needs immediate attention. The door panels are intact with only minor wear, the dash is in excellent condition, and the A/C even blows cold. An AM/FM/CD stereo head unit has been fitted to the dash, while overhead there's a nice tan vinyl power convertible top.

Buick was known for gentleman's hot rods, and the Electra was no exception, thanks to a muscular 430 cubic inch V8. Built for that effortless big block torque, the engine spins almost noiselessly at idle and moves the big car with surprising ease out on the open road. The engine is not original, but the numbers-matching block is available if desired (please call for details). It has been painted Chevy Orange rather than Buick Red, but the engine bay is impressively clean, with bright fittings and a correct air cleaner and decal. The transmission is a TH400 spinning a set of highway-friendly gears that make the most of the engine's torque. If ever there was a car designed to make the LA to Vegas trip in comfort, this is it. That feeling is enhanced by power steering and power brakes, as well as a recent dual exhaust system that has a subtle rumble that's perfectly appropriate. 235/75/15 whitewall radials have been fitted, along with the original full-sized hubcaps.

There aren't many better ways to enjoy the sunshine than a vintage convertible, and this big Buick offers a rock solid platform that would be easy to take to the next level. Call today!