Description
The Buick Special 40 Sedan was part of Buick’s entry-level series during the late 1930s and early 1940s, offering solid performance, elegant styling, and reliable engineering at an accessible price point. The “40” designation referred to its place in Buick’s model hierarchy, with the Special line positioned below the more upscale Super, Century, and Roadmaster series.
This sedan featured a traditional four-door body style with a full steel roof, generous interior space, and a focus on comfort and practicality. It was a popular choice for families and professionals who wanted a refined car with the quality associated with the Buick name, without stepping into luxury pricing territory. The Special 40 Sedan had a straightforward, streamlined design that included rounded fenders, a bold grille, and modest chrome accents—elements that gave it a tasteful yet understated presence on the road.
Under the hood, the Buick Special 40 Sedan was powered by a 248 cubic inch straight-eight engine. Known for its smooth operation and reliable performance, this overhead valve engine was paired with a three-speed manual transmission. While not the most powerful in the Buick lineup, it provided ample torque and dependable cruising ability for daily driving and longer trips alike.
The interior was well-appointed for its class, featuring cloth bench seats, a simple but functional dashboard, and well-placed controls. Instrumentation included a speedometer, fuel gauge, ammeter, and oil pressure indicator, all housed in a clean, Art Deco-style dash panel. Cabin insulation and suspension quality were also strong suits, contributing to a comfortable ride that exceeded expectations for a car in its segment.
The Buick Special 40 Sedan represented an ideal balance of value, quality, and style. It gave buyers access to Buick’s engineering excellence and distinctive looks without requiring the premium of higher-tier models. Today, it is appreciated by vintage car enthusiasts for its classic prewar design and as a dependable example of Buick’s commitment to making refined automobiles accessible to a broader market.