Description
Buick Special | 1956
Highlights:
– Restored hardtop coupé with two-tone paint
– Nailhead 322 CUI V8 with rebuilt Dynaflow transmission
– Period-correct styling with modern mechanical updates
– Equipped with power steering and brake booster
The seller offers for sale this 1956 Buick Special, part of the Series 40 lineup. This hardtop coupé showcases the distinctive styling of mid-1950s American cars, with sweeping lines, chrome accents, and the brand’s signature Ventiports on the front fenders. This particular example underwent a restoration in 1991 and was recently mechanically refreshed, making it ready for the road.
Power is provided by a 5.3-litre 322 CUI Nailhead V8 engine, paired to a two-speed automatic Dynaflow transmission. The engine has been revised in the Netherlands and features upgrades such as an Edelbrock carburetor (the original is included), an electronic ignition, and new stainless-steel mufflers. The transmission has been fitted with new gaskets and seals, and the torque converter has been overhauled. The original starter motor has also been rebuilt.
The car is finished in its original two-tone colour scheme. Though painted two decades ago, the finish remains in good condition with only minor signs of age. Chrome components, including the front bumper and grille, have been re-chromed to a high standard. There are some small imperfections on other trim pieces, but the overall appearance is good.
Inside, the car retains much of its original 1950s character, with restyled upholstery in good condition. The dashboard reflects the design language of the era, and instrumentation and controls are reported to function correctly. The side windows create a distinctive open-air effect when fully lowered, enhancing the visual and driving appeal.
Mechanically, the Buick is described as good. Recent work also includes new brake cylinders, lines, and the addition of a brake booster and power steering—enhancements that make the car more usable in modern traffic. Despite its age, the vehicle is said to drive, brake, and shift as expected.
The 1956 Buick Special was positioned just below the mid-tier Super and top-of-the-line Roadmaster in Buick’s lineup. With its 322-cubic inch V8 and bold styling, it was aimed at buyers looking for both power and presence. The Special featured innovations such as tubeless tires and an improved Dynaflow transmission, while remaining more affordable than its upscale siblings.
Buick’s Ventiports—decorative portholes on the front fenders—became a visual trademark in the post-war years. The Special models typically had three per side, while higher trims like the Roadmaster had four. The Special was available in several body styles, including sedan, convertible, and hardtop coupé like this example.
The 1956 models were also among the first to benefit from GM’s broader styling update, featuring longer bodies, more chrome, and distinctive wraparound windshields. Buick’s “Dream Car” era brought elements of show-car design to everyday production models, helping define the look of 1950s American luxury.
Although the Special was positioned as an entry-level model, it offered a level of performance and comfort that appealed to a broad market. Today, these cars are cherished by collectors for their design, mechanical simplicity, and cruising capability. This example, with its mechanical updates and restored bodywork, represents a well-kept survivor with visual appeal and usability.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in South Holland province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
