Originally introduced in 1936 as an easy-on-the-pocketbook full-size offering, the Special was a stand-alone model in the Buick roster for three different generations, with a pause in production years between each era. Though manufacturing of the Special as a freestanding model ended in 1969, the moniker saw continued use as an entry-level trim package for the popular Century over the following decades. It’s always fun to find an early example of just about any automobile that’s got an interesting story to go with it, and this 1938 Special Model 41 here on Facebook Marketplace certainly has one. Priced at $12,500, this vintage Buick is located in Mustang, Oklahoma, and we’d like to thank reader Zappenduster for spotting it and sending us the tip here!
Even though this Buick is now 88 years old, the seller says it spent its first 87 years as a one-owner vehicle and stayed with the same family in Canada until just recently, when he acquired it and brought the sedan to the United States. Until that time, the Century is also reported to have been stored for the past 55 years, so it’s spent more time off the road than on. The hibernation surroundings must have been exceptional, as the body remains in far better condition than most automobiles that have survived almost a century. The panels and undercarriage are described as rust-free, and there are no reports of any accidents in the car’s long history.
Despite the 1938 Special not being one of the higher trim levels in base form, the original owner is said to have custom-ordered this car and decided to include several extra-cost additions. While the 248 CI inline-8 was the only engine available, an optional semi-automatic 4-speed transmission was a feature chosen by only a few buyers, with the seller indicating just 1.8%, and this Touring Sedan happens to be one of those equipped with this rare component. He also states that Buick Club Historians believe there are only 12 to 15 of these running cars remaining worldwide, and that this one is said to have recently been driven approximately 100 trouble-free miles.
The interior is claimed to be original, and if that’s the case, it’s still in pretty amazing condition for its age. The 41 was billed as a 5-passenger sedan, and the cabin looks like it would provide a comfortable setting for each occupant, no matter where they were sitting. Sadly, the seller notes that their health declined shortly after this acquisition, so they’re seeking another caretaker to continue preserving and enjoying this 1938 Buick Special. Is there space in your garage for this one?
One owner for 87 years? Where did he buy it? The candy store? He’d have been a little kid. And it’s true, it had good maintenance records there were no reports of accidents on Horse and Buggy Fax. Seriously though, when I was a senior in high school I had a buddy who owned a ’39 Buick Special. It was black and if memory serves looked like this car. He had me repair its radio! He drove it everywhere and it wasn’t in anywhere near the condition this car is, and this was back in 1972. It’s said that cars from back then all looked alike, that might be somewhat true but you’d never mistake this automobile for today’s, say, Hyundai Elantra. This is a nice example and while older cars like this don’t seem to be valued that greatly, I’d give the asking price if I was interested.
Very cool that the gas ration stickers survived!