Buick has been an aspirational car brand for more than a century. Its vehicles offer more luxury and sophistication than cars sold by General Motors with Chevrolet and Pontiac badges. Moreover, in past years, GM brands had far less in common with each other than they do today.
Thus, the entry-level Buick Special had features and amenities not found in more affordable alternatives. A 1939 redesign furthered this distinction, with improvements evident in the 1939 Buick Special Series 40 sedan recently sold on eBay.
Modern Inside and Out
The redesign featured new styling with Art Deco design influences, bringing an aerodynamic look via a swept-back grille and big, teardrop headlights. A more angled windshield and larger glass area carry the sleek new look rearward while increasing visibility. Thinner center pillars further emphasized the modern style.
The 1939 Buick Special’s horizontal grille added a wide visual design element, a precursor to what would become a standard design element used by virtually all automakers today. Structural updates included floors two inches lower than in 1938 models, making for easier access and a lower center of gravity for stable handling. Other improvements included a lighter, more robust transmission and a full-coil suspension for a smooth ride.
The spacious and upscale interior also has art deco touches. There is walnut trim, an improved dash layout with full instrumentation, and a steering column-mounted shifter dubbed Handi-Shift. The Buick Special’s other creature comforts include:
- Hand-cranked vent windows
- Full carpeting
- Push-button Sonomatic radio
- Intricately designed dashboard clock
The cavernous rear seat area, easily accessed by rear-hinged doors, features a carpeted footrest.
Original Under the Hood
All these features are present in this well-preserved 1939 Buick Special. Garage kept and primarily owned by one family for most of its life, it’s in mostly original condition—a time capsule that testifies to decades of gentle use and care.
The correct inline eight-cylinder Dynaflash is under the hood. This “straight-eight” mill is known for its smooth operation and durability. The engine, complete with factory graphics, is said to run well with plenty of power and no fluid leaks. The matched three-speed manual transmission is in similarly excellent condition and shifts smoothly through the gears.
Affordable Entry to Collecting
Best of all, this classic and unmolested 1939 Buick Special remains largely as it left the factory, without modifications that risk decreasing its value and drivability. The only obvious modification is a set of modern Goodyear Wrangler radial tires, which should help with handling and safety.
Collectors know there is no substitute for a lovingly maintained and largely original car, both from an investment standpoint and for enjoyable driving and ownership. This Buick combines classic design with everyday drivability and the capability to cruise at highway speeds. It was offered with a Buy-It-Now price of $14,500—an excellent opportunity to get into the old car hobby or round out a vintage collection.
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