Description

The Buick Special 40 Sedanet was a stylish and streamlined variant of the Buick Special series, introduced in the late 1930s and produced into the early 1940s. Falling under the “40” model designation, the Sedanet shared its mechanical components with the standard Buick Special 40 models but featured a distinctive fastback roofline that set it apart in both form and character.

The Sedanet body style—essentially a two-door sedan with a sloping rear—was Buick’s answer to the growing demand for more aerodynamic and fashionable cars. It combined the practicality of a sedan with the sporty silhouette of a coupe, giving it an elegant profile that made it popular among buyers seeking a car with flair and function. The design included a long hood, smooth rear fenders, and integrated headlights, with chrome trim highlighting the body’s graceful lines.

Powering the Buick Special 40 Sedanet was a 248 cubic inch inline-eight engine, an overhead valve design known for its smooth and reliable performance. This engine delivered solid torque and cruising ability, making the car comfortable for both city driving and long-distance travel. It was typically mated to a three-speed manual transmission, with optional upgrades available in later models.

The interior of the Sedanet was comfortable and practical, with bench seating for up to five passengers. Upholstery was usually cloth in the Special series, complemented by tasteful trim and a clean dashboard layout featuring Art Deco-inspired instrumentation. Despite its sloping rear roof, the car offered adequate rear headroom and cargo space thanks to clever design.

The Buick Special 40 Sedanet struck a compelling balance between affordability, style, and performance. It appealed to younger buyers and families alike, offering the quality engineering of Buick with a more fashionable twist than the standard sedan. Today, the Sedanet is admired among classic car collectors for its sleek appearance and status as an early example of streamlined American automotive design.