Post-War Affordability
For Sale: 1951 Buick Special
Buick’s Special series, first introduced in the 1930s, was known for offering Buick quality at a more accessible price point. In 1951, the Special received several updates in styling and engineering, aligning it with the brand’s post-war design language, including its characteristic “sweepspear” chrome side trim and the VentiPorts (four per side) on the front fenders.
The 1951 Special retained its solid build and came in an array of body styles, including a two-door Sedanet (fastback style), two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door Riviera hardtop, convertible, and Estate Wagon with wood trim. While Buick’s popular “Dynaflow” automatic transmission was available as a $159 option, the standard transmission was a three-speed manual. Under the hood, the Special was powered by Buick’s reliable 248-cubic-inch inline-eight engine, producing 115 horsepower and 223 lb-ft of torque at 2000 RPM—a respectable amount for the time. This was Buick’s final year using the straight-eight engine in the Special, as it would switch to a more modern V8 in subsequent years.
The design of the 1951 Buick Special showcased the new “DreamLine” styling, featuring a bold, upright grille, rounded fenders, and the streamlined roofline that was typical of the early 1950s. Notable innovations included the “Guard-View” wrap-around windshield, push-button door handles, and the mid-year introduction of optional power steering. The interior was comfortable and spacious, offering mohair or broadcloth upholstery options, a new instrument panel design, an optional Selectronic radio, and a standard clock. Buick marketed the Special as an affordable yet stylish and reliable car, with base prices starting at approximately $2,100.
The 1951 model year was part of a successful period for Buick, as the brand ranked third in U.S. car sales behind Chevrolet and Ford. The Special, which represented about 70% of Buick’s total production with approximately 400,000 units, contributed significantly to Buick’s reputation for creating reliable, mid-priced cars that maintained a sense of elegance. Despite Korean War restrictions affecting production and materials shortages leading to some trim changes mid-year, the Special successfully competed with rivals like the Oldsmobile 88 and Chrysler Windsor.
Today, the 1951 Buick Special remains appreciated by classic car enthusiasts for its classic styling, durable engineering, and representation of the early 1950s American automotive landscape. Its 121.5-inch wheelbase, 204.5-inch overall length, and approximately 3,700-pound weight (varying by body style) created a substantial presence on the road, while features like hydraulic drum brakes and 15-inch wheels provided reliable performance for the era.
A five-year sales history can be seen at Classic.com. Valuation tables can be seen at Caaarguide.com. For production numbers and values, see Conceptcarz.com. Current values can also be seen at Collectorcarmarket.com. In-depth specifications and performance can be seen at Automobile-catalog.com. Complete specifications can also be seen at Classiccardatabase.com.
Nadaguides.com – Average price: $20,500
Image credit – Wikipedia.org
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