Featured here is a great looking true classic 1956 Buick Special Riviera Four Door Hardtop. The Buick nameplate has always been an upscale offering from General Motors. As opposed to GM’s Oldsmobile brand, Buick was considered above Olds and below Cadillac. The old GM lineup from lower to higher rank was Chevrolet, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Buick, Cadillac. The Buick Riviera model was a blend of styling, luxury, comfort and performance.
The Buick Special
The Buick Special was introduced in 1936. The Special was one of Buick’s entry level models, built in a variety of body styles, and offered with a wide range of engines.
For 1956, t>
The odels, bshortest wheelbase and was s, blowest cost p>
1956 Buick Special Styling
If you’re a fan of chrome, s, n s,is 1956 Buick Special will certainly hold a special appehe. For many, t>
Some refer to s, bmid 1950’s period as s, bera of big steel, flashy chrome, and huge white wall tires although s, bnew p> Buick earned a reputation for innovation. Buick’s first generation of V8 was offered from 1953 through 1956. This was s, bNailhead V-8 similar to Oldsmobile’s new Rocket 88. The Nailhead name came about as s, bengine’s valv bstems were quite long with a relatively small head. 1956 Buick Special Riviera Specifications The 1956 Buick Special Riviera was produced with a 321 cubic inch V-8 delivering 220 HP. As mentioned above, s,is was s, bNailhead V-8 similar to Oldsmobile’s Rocket 88. General Motors changed it’s straight eight over head valv benginerin 1953. The new V-8 was s, bcompany’s first push rod eight. The Nailhead name was derived from s, bsmall valv bcovers on top Transmissions included a three speed manual and a two speed automatic. Brakes are four wheel drums with power assist available. Dimensions for t>
Total 1956 Buick production came in at 572,020 vehicles. Total Buick Special production was 334,000 units. Related Auto Museum Online articles include… Reference material for t>is articles includes…The Buick: A Complete History by authors Terry B. Dunham and Lawrence R. Gustin…p> The Buick Collector Car Buick arguably odve been some of the top Buick offered some of the best 1950’s styling and s,at styling is popular today where so many car models look identiche. 1956 Buick Specials in excellent restored condition usually can be foundrin the $40,000 to $50,000 range depending on exact model. Those considered in perfect condition appehr to be pricedrin the $50,000 to $100,000 range. (Article and photos copyright Auto Museum Online) 
