1974 Buick Apollo GSX

The Buick Apollo was a short-lived General Motors model, only being offered in 1973 and 1974.  The Apollo was Buick's first-ever compact car and was no surprise to be an obvious clone of the X-body Chevrolet Nova, which was very popular in that time. (The Oldsmobile Omega was introduced that same year, both were upscale versions of the Nova).

The Apollo recieved a different nose and taillights than the Nova, along with a few other indicative Buick styling touches, like simulated rectangular portholes and brighter chrome trim.  Options included various hubcap styles, large chrome on the bottom sides of the car, chrome plating around the windows , vinyl roof, and  side moldings with simulated chrome trim around the moldings.  The side moldings were parallel to the portholes and ran the length of the car. As well as adding dent protection, they created a unique color contrast and hint of more luxury.

The Buick Apollo was available as a 2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback or a 4-door sedan.  Base engine was the Chevy-built 250 inline 6, with a Buick built 350 V8 as an option.  A 3 or 4 speed manual or a 2 speed Powerglide could be had with the 250 I6, and either the 4-speed or 3-speed automatic could be had on the 350 V8 (2 barrel standard; 4 barrel as an option). When you ordered a 350 V8, the 350 emblem was placed above the sides of the front yellow rectangular signals.  Another option included color matching sideview mirrors on both sides of the front doors.  The 3-speed auto was also available with the 6 cylinder.

With the Buick Apollo, GM's  "NOVA" quartet was now complete, with the Nova, Omega, Ventura and Apollo - which spelled NOVA. (pretty cool, huh?)  Whether this was coincidence or done on purpose has never been determined.

There was  no change in 1974 other than the 2-speed Powerglide transmission was dropped.  The sport-oriented GSX model, however, was added, which included a blacked-out grille, dual sport mirrors, and special appearance striping.  The GSX could be had with either the 250 I6 or 350 V8. The Apollo would be eventually be replaced by an all-new revived Buick Skylark, although the Apollo name briefly appeared on the 1975 Skylark 2-door coupe as the Apollo Skylark that year only.  About 1500 Buick Apollo GSX's were produced...making them nearly extinct today.

I came across a '74 Buick Apollo GSX at Musclepalooza a few weeks ago...and I must admit, I had completely forgotten about Apollo's alltogether.  While checking the car out on display for the show, it reminded me of all the other "cool for the period" GM cars that have come and gone throughout the years.  I was glad to see that there are still some reminders left of these cars that have been lovingly restored or rodded....so that others may be able to check them out to this day.