This spectacular 1985 Buick Wildcat concept car incorporated a four-wheel drive and a McLaren engine based on Buick’s 3.8-liter V-6 block mounted just behind the seats. The engine has 24 valves, dual overhead camshafts, and field-programmable sequential-port fuel injection. Unlike other Buick dream cars, this one emphasized the engine. The top of the powerplant is visible through an opening in the rear deck.
Besides an unusual aerodynamic design, the latter-day Wildcat features technical and design breakthroughs in joining the transparent and solid portions of the body. It has no traditional doors. As the canopy is raised, the steering wheel tilts forward to ease entry. The body structure is composite carbon fiber and glass. This car, developed in cooperation with PPG Industries, was given the coveted 1986 award for prototype projects by the International Jury of the Car Design Award Turino-Piemonte, presented at the Turin (Italy) Auto Show.
Engine & performance:
Position: mid-engined
Type: V6, DOHC, 24-valve
Bore: 96.5 mm
Stroke: 86.5 mm
Capacity: 3791 cc
Power: 230 hp 6000 rpm
Drive: RWD
Top speed: 320 km/h
Dimensions:
Length: 4390 mm
Source: www.gmphotostore.com
Images: General Motors Corp.; Concept Car Central
