22nd Aug 2007, 09:56
I am blessed to have a 1972 Buick Electra 225 and it is one of the best, if not the best, car I've ever had or driven. For a very large car, it handles very well. Have you noticed that the steering on this car is so smooth and easy, you could make turns with just one finger if you wanted? Also, if you need to pick up speed suddenly, it is so smooth and seemingly effortless in this car. This car accelerates on an uphill highway entrance ramp like it's going downhill. No airbags or fancy electronic safety devices, but at just a shade under 20 feet long and almost 5,000 pounds, with large heavy bumpers and thick sheet metal body, you feel safe in this car. I would tell anyone with an Electra 225 of any year to just enjoy it, take care of it, and don't get too rattled by the gas mileage (which is about the only negative I have heard for this car).
12th Jul 2009, 15:38
Hi, I am the proud owner of a 1974 Buick Electra 225 with less than 30,000 miles on it, a beautiful car, but it overheats and need to know why. If there is someone out there that could help me, please do. Thank you.
13th Jul 2009, 13:21
Try a thermostat replacement. check for coolant leaks around the radiator, hoses and water pump, also check your expansion (freeze) plugs on the block and heads. Could also be your water pump impeller is rusted off. Those are some basic causes for overheating, Some not to basic and expensive causes are blown head gaskets or blocked coolant passages in the heads or block. good luck and if you need more help email me.
Miketastic1982@yahoo.com.
I know, weird email address, It's a long story and a lost bet...
4th Aug 2007, 18:36
Back in the '70s, I drove a 1973 Electra which belonged to my aunt. The ride was memorable! The engine had such power and torque that maintaining a cruising speed of 70 miles per hour was effortless. I checked the gas mileage after a long trip and found that mostly freeway driving resulted in almost exactly 12 mpg. Not really bad for a 5000-pound car with 455 cubic inches of engine, running for half a day at 70 miles an hour!
I noticed that the advertised power and torque for this engine was a meager 225 horsepower at only 4000 rpm and 360 ft-lbs. My guess is that this must be the rating at the rear wheels, not at the flywheel. Assuming a 20 percent drivetrain loss, this would mean flywheel horsepower of just over 280 and torque of 450 ft-lbs. Now that's more like it!