BF Exclusive: 1956 Buick Special Custom

• Seller: Todd G rimsley (Contact)
• Location: Pine River, Minnesota
• Mileage: 72,245 Shown
• Chassis #: 4C2051903
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 322 cui Nailhead V8
• Transmission: 2-Speed DynaFlow

This 1956 Buick Special Custom is a stunning classic that recently emerged from a fifteen-year slumber. It spent those years in a heated environment, protecting the car from the ravages of rust and other issues. The current owner recently revived this classic, ensuring that it runs and drives. It will need more work to be genuinely roadworthy, but the tasks shouldn’t be complicated or expensive. However, he feels that the time is right for another enthusiast to return this classic to its rightful place on our roads. With that thought in mind, the owner has listed the Buick exclusively with us at Barn Finds.

Buick introduced a new-generation Special range in 1949, bringing dramatically updated styling and introducing the VentiPorts, which became one of the marque’s signature features for decades. The Special proved a showroom success, but Buick didn’t rest on its laurels; the 1956 model year delivered a major cosmetic update, keeping the Special looking fresh. Our featured Buick rolled off the line that year, and looks stunning in Claret Red. The paint shines richly, with no major faults or imperfections. The panels are laser-straight, and there’s no evidence of rust following years spent in its warm slumber. The trim looks exceptional, providing a striking contrast to the fairly dark paint shade. The glass is clear, and the narrow whitewalls add the perfect finishing touch.

One game-changer of the period was Buick’s introduction of its iconic “Nailhead” V8 engine range. It allowed the company to produce cars with smaller engine bays, devoting more of the car’s overall length to passenger accommodation. This Special features the 322ci version, delivering a factory-quoted 220hp and 319 ft/lbs of torque. The first owner equipped the car with the two-speed Dynaflow automatic transmission and power steering, guaranteeing a relaxed driving experience. The owner recently awoke this classic from its slumber, confirming that it runs and drives. He updated the braking system and says the tires are good, but it will need a new fuel tank and some steering work before it’s genuinely roadworthy. Those tasks shouldn’t be overwhelming or expensive, and they seem to be all that stands between this beauty and life on the open road.

I’ve always loved interiors from this period because manufacturers strove to make even the most basic cars feel special. This Buick is no exception, with much of its dash covered in sparkling bright trim. The seats are upholstered in Gray cloth and vinyl, complemented by matching carpet and contrasting Black on the remaining upholstered surfaces. The seats look excellent, as you will see when you scroll through the image gallery. The dash is a work of art, featuring a factory pushbutton radio and a clock accentuating the luxurious feel. The carpet is marked beneath the driver’s feet, but it remains presentable if potential buyers consider it a driver-grade classic. One modern touch is the under-dash CD stereo to relieve boredom on long journeys.

The owner admits that this 1956 Buick Special Custom isn’t perfect, but that could be one of its greatest strengths. Its presentation passes muster for a driver-grade classic that will turn heads, but because it isn’t pristine, it offers a more relaxed ownership experience than a showroom-fresh car would deliver. None of its mechanical needs are complicated, and addressing them would be a rewarding way to occupy the winter months. That way, when the sun shows its face again, this beautiful Buick will be ready to hit the road with a proud new owner behind the wheel. That is why this Special deserves a closer look.