Description
The Buick Special Business Coupé was part of Buick’s Special series and was introduced during the 1940s, specifically in 1940. It was a model that catered to a practical, no-frills market, offering a balance between performance, affordability, and style. The Business Coupé body style was designed primarily for commercial or business use, often appealing to professionals or small business owners who needed a stylish yet functional vehicle for daily work.
The Buick Special Business Coupé featured a compact and streamlined design, with a distinctive fastback roofline that gave it a sporty and elegant appearance. Its two-door coupe layout was designed for maximum interior space, with a simple, comfortable cabin suitable for either personal or professional use. Unlike passenger sedans, the Business Coupé often featured a larger trunk area for carrying goods or tools, making it a practical choice for individuals who needed a car for both transportation and work.
Powered by Buick’s dependable straight-eight engine, the Special Business Coupé was equipped with a 233 cubic-inch (3.8-liter) engine that offered solid performance. The engine was mated to a standard three-speed manual transmission, with an option for an automatic transmission in later years. The engine’s smooth operation and strong torque made it a reliable vehicle for daily driving, while its suspension provided a comfortable ride for the era.
Styling-wise, the Buick Special Business Coupé had a more minimalist design compared to the higher-end Buick models of the time, with fewer exterior embellishments and a more restrained use of chrome. However, it still maintained the brand’s signature elegance with rounded fenders, a wide grille, and clean lines that gave it an upscale yet practical appearance.
Inside, the Business Coupé was straightforward but functional, featuring durable upholstery materials that could withstand frequent use. The dashboard was simple, with large, easy-to-read gauges and a well-organized layout. The car’s two-passenger configuration and open trunk space allowed for greater flexibility, catering to business users who required a practical, spacious vehicle with a touch of style.
The Buick Special Business Coupé was positioned as a more affordable option for Buick buyers who didn’t need the larger, more luxurious sedans but still wanted the reliability and quality associated with the Buick brand. Today, surviving examples of the Buick Special Business Coupé are appreciated by collectors for their historical value and their representation of Buick’s commitment to functional, yet stylish, cars during the early 1940s.