1999 Buick Park Avenue in Frankfort, IL - $0

The 2005 model year is the last for this staple of the Buick passenger car lineup. The nameplate plans to give the flagship sedan a proper send off by building 3,000 Special Edition Park Avenue and Park Avenue Ultra sedans, featuring special badging, standard chrome wheels, and an optional exclusive chrome wheel on the Ultra. The badge on the C-pillar features the words "Special Edition" under an illustration of the New York City skyline. Several hundred of these Special Edition models will be offered in an optional black and platinum two-tone exterior finish.

Other changes to the front-drive Park Avenue for 2005 include an all-new grill design and select features previously reserved for the Park Avenue Ultra such as the addition of front fender portholes. A revised taillight design using clear lens graphics, revised deck lid appliqué, and repositioned name badges from the rear quarter panels to the license plate header round out this year's enhancements.

Available in Park Avenue and Park Avenue Ultra trim levels, the large Buick is powered by the normally aspirated 3800 V6 engine, while the Ultra is propelled by a supercharged version of the same prime mover. A smooth-shifting Hydra-Matic electronically-controlled four-speed automatic transmission conveys torque to the street.

On the road, the Park Avenue's combination of engine and gearbox produces a smooth and strong stream of performance that is never overbearing. This car is both quiet and secure while having a nimble, light-on-its-feet quality, making it very easy to maneuver and drive. The Ultra's handling and performance are further aided with StabiliTrak, an advanced integrated vehicle stability control system.

Inside, the cabin is loaded with a broad array of creature comforts. Displays and controls are excellent. The back seat is a lot like sitting in a favorite living room chair, complete with a built-in molded armrest and cupholder. This is a domestic sedan that is technologically advanced, soundly engineered and a joy to drive.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 113.8; overall length: 206.8; width: 74.7; height: 57.4 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.8L V6 -- 205 hp at 5,200 rpm and 230 lbs-ft torque at 4,000 rpm; 3.8L supercharged V6 -- 240 hp at 5,200 rpm and 280 lbs-ft torque at 3,600 rpm.

Transmission: Hydra-Matic 4T65-E four-speed automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 3.8L V6 -- 20 city/29 hwy.; 3.8L supercharged V6 -- 18 city/23 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 19.1 cubic feet.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, alarm system, automatic power door locks, remote keyless entry and automatic headlamp control. Ultra adds OnStar communications system, tire pressure monitor, garage door opener, StabiliTrak and traction control. Optional safety equipment includes heads-up instrument display and rear parking sensors.

Warranty

Basic: 3 year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 6 year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 3 year/36,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 Buick Park Avenue starts from $35,555 for the Park Avenue sedan and $40,730 for the Park Avenue Ultra. Destination charges add $795.

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