Buick Special
As Buick's accessible entry-level model, the Special offered classic styling and solid engineering to a wider audience. It's particularly known for its post-war VentiPorts and the innovative all-aluminum V8 engine introduced in the early 1960s.
Buick Special sold for a median of $16,500 over the last 12 months, based on 53 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $9,800 and $26,400. 350 currently for sale.
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Buick Special prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1936 | $24k | – | 3 | 5 |
| 1937 | $15k | $12k–$18k | 13 | 10 |
| 1938 | $18k | $9.8k–$39k | 9 | 5 |
| 1939 | $13k | $7.9k–$24k | 14 | 20 |
| 1940 | $11k | $9.2k–$32k | 8 | 34 |
| 1941 | $20k | $16k–$24k | 4 | 7 |
| 1942 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
| 1948 | – | – | 0 | 3 |
| 1950 | – | – | 0 | 12 |
| 1951 | $11k | – | 1 | 8 |
| 1952 | – | – | 0 | 6 |
| 1953 | $14k | $11k–$17k | 4 | 33 |
| 1954 | $15k | $5.5k–$19k | 5 | 14 |
| 1955 | $15k | $8.5k–$21k | 13 | 37 |
| 1956 | $24k | $15k–$33k | 11 | 29 |
| 1957 | $30k | $21k–$44k | 13 | 18 |
| 1958 | $23k | $20k–$83k | 6 | 9 |
| 1961 | $14k | – | 2 | 9 |
| 1962 | $11k | – | 1 | 9 |
| 1963 | – | – | 0 | 8 |
| 1964 | – | – | 0 | 6 |
| 1965 | $19k | $12k–$29k | 4 | 16 |
| 1966 | $15k | – | 2 | 6 |
| 1967 | $16k | – | 2 | 6 |
| 1969 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Buick Special served as the brand's entry-level model for decades, first from 1936-1958 and then as a compact from 1961-1969. It offered classic Buick styling and solid engineering to a wider audience. Post-war models are known for their distinctive grilles and VentiPorts, while the 1961-1963 models introduced the innovative all-aluminum 215 cubic inch V8, a predecessor to a long-lived Rover engine.
Collectors appreciate the Special for its accessible price point and wide variety of body styles, including sedans, coupes, wagons, and convertibles. The pre-war cars offer Art Deco charm, the 1950s models deliver iconic chrome-laden Americana, and the 1960s compacts represent a unique chapter in GM's history. These cars provide a comfortable and stylish classic motoring experience without the high price of a Cadillac or top-tier Buick Roadmaster.
The market for the Buick Special is broad, with an average sale price around $21,309. The wide range reflects the vast differences between a 4-door sedan project and a concours-quality restored convertible. Well-preserved original cars and tastefully restored examples, particularly 2-door hardtops and convertibles from the mid-1950s, command the highest values.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the primary concern. Thoroughly inspect the floor pans, trunk floor, rocker panels, and the areas around the front and rear glass.
- The Dynaflow automatic transmission should be smooth, if slow. Check for fluid leaks and listen for unusual noises during operation.
- For 1961-1963 models, check the aluminum 215 V8 for signs of overheating or coolant leaks, which can indicate head gasket or block porosity issues.
- Exterior trim and chrome pieces can be very difficult to source. Ensure all brightwork is present and in good, restorable condition.
Prices range from $2,500 for projects to over $125,000 for concours-level convertibles.
1,285 Buick Special vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 350 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Buick Special cost?
Over the last 12 months, Buick Special sold for a median of $16,500 across 53 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $9,800 and $26,400. There are 350 currently for sale.
How many Buick Special listings are for sale right now?
There are 350 Buick Special listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.