1955 Buick Special Series 40 Convertible Coupe

Buick redesigned its model line for 1954; the following year, all that was needed with a simple freshening. Changes included 'Dagmar' front bumpers, named for the busty starlet for whom they resembled, and a wraparound windshield. In the back was a 'Florentine' window, and there were Ventiports that ran along each front fender. Many of these design cues were sourced from the 'dream car designs' that had been seen on Harley Earl's famous Motoramas.

This 1955 Buick Series 40 Special was part of the company's entry-level line. It came standard with a 188 horsepower, overhead-valve V8 engine, tubeless tires, directional signals, armrests, and additional insulation. Body styles included a two- and four-door hardtop, sedan, convertible, and a station wagon. Just over 10,000 examples of the Special Convertible were built.

This example is finished in two-tone Cherokee Red and Dover White and is equipped with a Sonomatic radio with a power antenna, wide whitewall bias-ply tires, vinyl upholstery with proper carpets, and power steering.

Since new, the car has been treated to a restoration. It is an AACA Senior award winner, and the car still wears the appropriate badge.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2014