1958 Buick Series 700 Limited

The late 1950s were the zenith of automotive excess with large cars, lavish trim, towering tail fins, space-age inspired design themes, and flamboyant chrome. The 1958 Buicks were dubbed the Air Born B-58 and were stated to have been birthed from aviation principles, starting with the extensive new use of aluminum throughout, more than any car before. The flight persona continued with the mechanical aspects topped by 364 cubic-inch 300 horsepower Nailhead V8 providing performance associated with jet fighters. The Limited featured the Flight Pitch Dynaflow transmission, which featured three turbines and a variable-pitch stator.

Buick revived the 'Limited' name which had previously been used on the Roadmaster and the pre-War Series 90. For 1957, the Roadmaster had two series, the 70 and 75. The 75 consisted of just two body styles, a Riviera hardtop sedan, and a Riviera hardtop coupe. The following year, these became the Limited Series 700, and a convertible coupe model 756 joined the lineup. Priced at $5,125, these were the most expensive Buick. Just like the 1936 Buick Limited, where the name actually meant 'limited,' just 839 examples were built in 1958 making them the rarest stateside Buick offering.

The 1958 Buick Limited were among the most excessively chrome-covered vehicles on American roads. The 1958 Limited was the company's top-of-the-line model, with the same dynamic Fashion Air Dynastar styling as other Flint products of the year, including a remarkable grille composed of 160 faceted chrome squares. The brightwork detail continues along the car's exterior flanks, as well around the rear fascia and throughout the interior.

The wheelbase measured 127.5 inches and its length was over 227 inches. Unique features of the three Limited body styles were the hash marks along the rear fenders. Another distinct feature on the 1958 Limited was the bright lower rear quarter panels that blended into the large rear bumpers. Each wheel opening was surrounded by jewel-like chrome bands. The taillight towers and luxurious interior were also unique.

The 1958 Buick Limited were marvelous vehicles with nearly 1,000 pounds of chrome and trim on the car alone. The sluggish sales are attributed to the high price tag and the severe recession that began in late 1957, leaving just a few people who could afford to purchase one.

With the slow sales, the departure of Harley Earl, and a rough economy, GM management canceled the project the very next year making the Limited a one-year-only model.

by Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2020