1958 Buick Special Convertible

This 1958 Buick Special convertible is finished in a two-tone red over white exterior with matching interior. Having received a full restoration in 2007, this Buick is powered by a 346ci Nailhead V8 mated to a Hydramatic 2-speed automatic transmission which are both believed to be original to the car. Designed by Harley Earl, the car features extensive use of chrome, a power convertible top as well as power steering and brakes. Owned by the selling dealer for the last four years, the odometer shows 61K miles, though actual mileage is unknown.   

During its 2007 restoration, this Buick Special received a full repaint of its original two-tone Seminole Red and Glacier White exterior. The body features copious amounts of chrome starting with the bullet style grille and wrap-around bumper with integrated turn indicators in the front. A pair of Buick emblems are mounted on the front of each fender chrome strips accenting the body lines. Additional trim runs along the body line of the car down the sides, separating the two colors. The rear quarter panels feature a larger chrome trim piece with stamped metal inserts flowing into the chrome taillight housings and rear bumper. There is evidence of paint cracking along the rocker underneath the passenger door that is viewable in the gallery

The car rides on 15" wire wheels with spinner style center caps wrapped in wide whitewall tires on all four corners, which were added by the seller. The brakes are power-assisted drums, which were all replaced in 2016.

On the interior, reupholstered red and white vinyl bench seats are complimented by red carpeting and a red padded dashboard. Features include the factory AM Sonomatic radio, power-operated top and manual roll down windows. A white boot cover is included to cover the convertible top when it's in the down position.

Instrumentation situated behind the white factory three-spoke steering wheel with a chrome trim ring and includes a 120-mph horizontal speedometer. Ancillary gauges display engine temperature, oil pressure, amperage, and fuel level. The five-digit analog odometer shows 61,814 miles but the true mileage is unknown.

Powered by a 346ci Nailhead V8 engine, the engine was factory rated at 250 horsepower with 380 ft/lbs of torque and a 9.5:1 compression ration.  The engine received a general tune-up in 2016 and various gaskets and components replaced. The two-speed Hydramatic transmission is said to be original to the car, though the seller notes an intermittent fluid leak from the housing.

Additional underside photos are available in the gallery

Located in West Bend, Wisconsin, this Harley Early designed Buick Special is offered for sale by the selling dealer on a clean Arizona title.

AUTOHUNTER ADMIN UPDATE 10/2/2020 8:20 PST: Photos of the convertible top have been added to the end of the gallery.