1999 BUICK LeSabre 3.8L V6 4AT (208 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Even though it was called “poor man’s Cadillac”, the Buick LeSabre confirmed its premium level of comfort and smooth ride despite lacking some features from a luxury brand.

The LeSabre nameplate was introduced on a concept-car in 1951 and featured aircraft-inspired elements four years after the F-86 Sabre fighter jet was launched and scored major air-combat victories in the Korean war. But the first series-production LeSabre appeared in 1959 and it was a luxury vehicle. The eighth-generation was the best selling full-size car in the U.S. market until it was discontinued in 2005.

The 1999 LeSabre was based on the same platform as the Cadillac Seville. Its rounded shape with swept-back over front fenders headlights was specific to the brand. The oval-shaped grille and the curves on the beltline enlisted the car into the biodesign trend, which was about to end.

Inside, a front bench with a center armrest was available as an alternative for a two-seat configuration. The leather upholstery was on the options list, but cloth seats were fitted as standard. A flat and vertical dash-panel was in front of the driver, with a clear instrument cluster illuminated in green colors. Due to its big wheelbase, LeSabre offered good comfort for two passengers in the rear. Interestingly though, there were two three-point seatbelts in the back and a lap belt for the middle passenger.

The LeSabre was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine. It was the only option and it only came in one power output. It was mated as standard to a 4-speed automatic transmission.