1937 Buick Special: Unleashing the American Elegance and Grace

The Buick Special was a vehicle that embodied style and substance, turning heads wherever it went. From its sleek lines and muscular curves to its powerful engine and smooth ride, this groundbreaking automobile was a true automotive marvel that captivated the hearts and minds of enthusiasts around the world.

Source: Classic Digest

In the early 1930s, Buick was struggling to compete with other automakers, particularly Ford and Chevrolet. The company needed a new car that was smaller and more affordable than its existing models but still retained the high-quality craftsmanship that the brand was known for. Introduced in 1936, the Special quickly made a name for itself as an automobile that combined affordability with luxury, providing a driving experience that was both exhilarating and comfortable. With its powerful straight-eight engine and sophisticated suspension system, the brand’s novelty was capable of delivering an incredible performance that was unrivaled in its class.

The origins

Source: Barrett-Jackson

This mid-sized vehicle which was the brainchild of the famous division of General Motors from 1936 to 1958, had a unique and fascinating history. In the early 1930s, Buick was struggling to compete with other automakers, particularly Ford and Chevrolet. The company needed a new car that was smaller and more affordable than its existing vehicles but still retained the high-quality craftsmanship that the brand boasted. In 1934, the brand hired Harley Earl, an automotive designer who had worked for General Motors since the 1920s, to create a new vehicle that would fill this gap in the market. Earl assembled a team of designers, including Bob Gregorie and Holden Koto, and set to work on the project. By 1935, the team had produced a prototype of the new car, which they called the Model 48. This automobile had a 248 cubic inch straight-eight engine and was more aerodynamic than previous Buick vehicles. However, the brand executives asked Earl and his team to make some changes. Earl and his team went back to work and produced a new prototype, which they called the Special. This one received a 233 cubic inch straight-eight engine and a more streamlined design than the Model 48. The brand’s executives liked the new design so much that they gave the go-ahead for production. The first automobile rolled off the production line in 1936. It was an instant success, with its combination of high-quality craftsmanship, affordability, and stylish design. Over the next two decades, this car continued to evolve, with changes to its engine, body style, and interior features. In 1958, Buick decided to discontinue the Special, as it had been largely replaced by the Century and Special Deluxe. However, the legacy of the Buick Special lives on, as a symbol of the ingenuity and creativity of the automotive designers who brought it to life.

The 1937 model year

Source: Barrett-Jackson

The 1937 version was a considerable improvement from its previous model. It had several enhancements in terms of its technical features, interior, and exterior, making it a remarkable example of American automobile engineering during that period. The vehicle’s engine had a 248 cubic inch straight-eight engine that produced 107 horsepower and a three-speed manual transmission, offering smooth shifting. Additionally, the automobile was equipped with a hydraulic brake system that was a significant upgrade from the earlier mechanical brakes. Passengers inside the vehicle had access to a spacious and luxurious cabin that featured comfortable, wide seats covered in high-quality materials. The dashboard was redesigned and featured a large speedometer, and gauges for fuel, oil pressure, and water temperature. The windows of the vehicle were also improved with a new mechanism that allowed for more comfortable operation. The exterior of the 1937 version was elegant and aerodynamic, with a more imposing presence on the road due to its longer and wider body than the previous year’s model. The front grille was redesigned with a more streamlined appearance, and the headlights were integrated into the fenders, creating a modern look. The vehicle’s overall look was enhanced by the addition of chrome accents on the bumpers, door handles, and trim. Compared to the previous model, the 1937 edition had several improvements and upgrades, including a more powerful and efficient engine, a hydraulic brake system, a more spacious and luxurious interior, and a more aerodynamic and streamlined exterior design.

Did you know?

Source: Mecum Auctions

The 1937 version of the model appeared in the 1985 film “The Journey of Natty Gann.” The vehicle was driven by the character of Sol Gann, played by Ray Wise, who traveled with his daughter Natty, played by Meredith Salenger, in search of work during the Great Depression. The 1937 edition was featured prominently in several scenes throughout the movie, showcasing its stylish and elegant design. Its appearance in this film helped to further cement its status as a classic car and contributed to its enduring popularity among enthusiasts and movie buffs alike.

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